In a major push to modernise its frontline combat forces, the Indian Army has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to acquire 450 Carl Gustaf Mark-IV 84mm lightweight rocket launchers.
The procurement, which includes necessary accessories, sighting systems, and spare parts, is designed to significantly boost the anti-armour and multi-role capabilities of infantry units while promoting self-reliance in the defence sector.
A key highlight of this acquisition is that the weapon systems will be manufactured locally.
The launchers will be sourced directly from the recently established production facility of the Swedish defence major Saab, located at Reliance MET City in Jhajjar, Haryana.
This factory is Saab's first manufacturing plant for the Carl Gustaf system outside of Sweden and the first 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) project in India's defence manufacturing sector, aligning perfectly with the government's Make in India initiative.
By sourcing these critical weapons domestically, the Indian Armed Forces are shifting away from direct imports.
This move not only lessens reliance on foreign production lines but also helps establish a robust and sustainable industrial ecosystem for one of the most widely utilised shoulder-fired weapon platforms in the world.
The Mark-IV is the newest iteration of Saab's famous 84mm recoilless rifle family.
It is built using advanced materials like carbon fibre and titanium, which brings the weapon's weight down to less than seven kilograms.
This lighter build improves troop mobility and speed while ensuring the launcher remains fully compatible with all existing Carl Gustaf ammunition.
According to open-source technical specifications released alongside the RFP, the new launchers must endure severe conditions.
They are required to function flawlessly in extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to +50°C, making them suitable for deployment everywhere from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the scorching deserts of Rajasthan.
The launchers must also offer a barrel life of at least 1,500 rounds or 15 years of service, and accurately engage targets at distances between 350 and 800 metres.
Additionally, the Army has mandated strict timelines and long-term support. Initial deliveries must be completed within 12 months of signing the contract.
The selected vendor must also commit to providing comprehensive product support for 15 years, backed by a 24-month warranty, ensuring the weapons remain combat-ready throughout their service life.
The Carl Gustaf launcher is known for its incredible versatility, capable of firing a wide range of ammunition.
From anti-armour and anti-structure rounds to high-explosive, smoke, and illumination shells, it provides infantry soldiers with organic, precision firepower.
Furthermore, the Mark-IV allows for the attachment of modern intelligent fire-control systems, drastically improving the chances of hitting targets with the first shot.
For decades, the Indian Army has trusted the Carl Gustaf as a reliable infantry support weapon.
The addition of the advanced Mark-IV variants will give soldiers a crucial edge in anti-bunker missions, urban warfare, and mountain combat, allowing them to engage various threats without exclusively waiting for artillery or air support.
Beyond domestic needs, the new manufacturing facility in Haryana positions India as a vital hub in the global defence supply chain.
The Jhajjar plant will produce launcher tubes, assemble components, and handle long-term maintenance.
As local supply chains grow stronger, this factory could eventually export the Carl Gustaf systems to friendly nations, fulfilling the vision of making India a prominent exporter of advanced military hardware.
This procurement underscores the lessons learned from modern global conflicts, where portable and highly adaptable shoulder-fired weapons have proven to be essential for taking down both heavily fortified enemy positions and lightly armoured vehicles.
