Executive Summary:
Saab has secured a SEK 460 million contract from Lithuania for Carl-Gustaf M4 weapons and training systems, with deliveries running through 2029. The deal strengthens Lithuania’s infantry modernization efforts while deepening long-term defense cooperation between Vilnius and the Swedish defense company.
Saab Carl-Gustaf M4 Order Strengthens Lithuania’s Infantry Capabilities
Saab has received a new order from Lithuania for the Carl-Gustaf M4 recoilless rifle system and associated training equipment, marking another step in the Baltic nation’s ongoing military modernization program.
The contract is valued at approximately SEK 460 million, or roughly $48 million, with deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2029. The agreement forms part of a broader ten-year framework contract between Saab and Lithuania that could reach a total value of SEK 640 million if additional options are exercised.
The order includes Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon systems, sub-calibre adapters for training ammunition, and Carl-Gustaf Outdoor Trainers designed to improve combat readiness and live-fire preparation.
According to Saab, the agreement also incorporates cooperation with Lithuania’s domestic defense industry in line with national industrial participation regulations.
Long-Term Defense Cooperation Expands
The latest procurement reflects Lithuania’s sustained investment in land warfare capabilities amid continued security concerns across Eastern Europe and the Baltic region.
Lithuania has accelerated defense spending in recent years, prioritizing anti-armor systems, air defense, armored mobility, and infantry modernization. The Saab Carl-Gustaf M4 order aligns with NATO efforts to improve frontline readiness and strengthen deterrence capabilities near the alliance’s eastern flank.
In a statement, Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s Dynamics business area, said the company remains committed to supporting Lithuanian forces with advanced battlefield capabilities and training systems.
The Carl-Gustaf platform has become widely adopted across NATO and allied militaries because of its modular design, portability, and multi-role flexibility. The system is capable of engaging armored vehicles, structures, and enemy personnel using a broad family of ammunition types.
Carl-Gustaf M4 Continues Global Expansion
The Carl-Gustaf M4 is the latest generation of Saab’s shoulder-fired recoilless rifle family. Compared with earlier variants, the M4 introduces a lighter design, improved ergonomics, digital compatibility, and enhanced integration with modern battlefield systems.
Weighing less than previous versions, the weapon is intended to improve mobility for dismounted infantry units operating in urban environments and contested terrain.
The Carl-Gustaf system remains in service with numerous NATO members and partner nations, including the United States, United Kingdom, Poland, and Sweden.
Its growing adoption reflects a broader trend among Western militaries toward portable, highly flexible infantry weapons capable of countering armored threats without relying exclusively on heavier anti-tank missile systems.
The Saab Carl-Gustaf M4 order also highlights the increasing importance of integrated training ecosystems alongside frontline weapon procurement. Modern military buyers are placing greater emphasis on simulation systems and realistic field training to improve readiness while reducing ammunition costs and safety risks.
Training Systems Included In The Agreement
A key aspect of the Lithuanian agreement is the inclusion of advanced training solutions.
The Carl-Gustaf Outdoor Trainer enables soldiers to rehearse tactical engagements and firing procedures in realistic operational conditions without requiring full live-fire exercises. Sub-calibre adapters further allow lower-cost training using reduced-caliber ammunition while maintaining operational familiarity with the launcher.
This integrated training approach helps units sustain proficiency levels while minimizing wear on operational weapons and reducing logistical burdens.
The focus on readiness is particularly important for smaller frontline NATO states that require highly capable reserve and active-duty forces able to mobilize quickly during regional crises.
Baltic Defense Spending Continues To Rise
Lithuania’s latest Saab procurement comes as Baltic nations continue expanding defense budgets and accelerating acquisitions of Western military equipment.
Regional governments have prioritized interoperability with NATO forces, modernization of legacy Soviet-era systems, and increased investment in domestic defense resilience.
The inclusion of Lithuanian defense industry cooperation in the agreement also reflects a wider European trend toward strengthening sovereign industrial participation and local sustainment capacity within major defense contracts.
For Saab, the Lithuanian agreement reinforces the company’s strong position in the European infantry weapons market at a time of rising demand for portable anti-armor and multi-role infantry systems.
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