Lithuania is expanding its anti-tank capabilities with a new order for Carl-Gustaf recoilless rifles from Swedish defense firm Saab.
Announced last week, the agreement covers the delivery of an undisclosed number of the shoulder-fired weapons, along with spare parts, for 14 million euros ($14.5 million).
According to the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence, the weapons are intended to support unit maneuvers in areas with hostile tanks and armored vehicles.
They can also be used to effectively neutralize enemy positions.
The anti-tank rifles are scheduled to be delivered to Vilnius between 2025 and 2026.
Lithuania previously placed similar orders for Carl-Gustaf M4 weapons in 2022 and 2023, although the exact number of units in the country remains unclear.
The Carl-Gustaf M4
The Carl-Gustaf M4 is a lightweight, man-portable weapon system designed to enable dismounted soldiers to effectively counter armored threats.
Weighing just 7 kilograms (15 pounds), the M4 can fire 4-kilogram (9-pound) rockets and penetrate up to 500 millimeters of armor.
It is compatible with a variety of munitions, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds, anti-structure shells, illuminating projectiles, and multi-target rounds.
Depending on the type of warhead used, the Carl-Gustaf can engage targets at ranges exceeding 1,000 meters (3,280 feet).
Since its introduction in 2014, the M4 has been adopted by at least 14 countries, underscoring its reliability and effectiveness in modern combat operations.
Response to Evolving Security Challenges
Lithuania’s decision to enhance its anti-tank capabilities comes in response to growing concerns that Russia could soon target a NATO member country if it wins in Ukraine.
A NATO member since 2004, Vilnius has been a significant contributor of military aid to Kyiv, providing over 705 million euros ($733 million) since the war began in 2022.
Amid rising threats, the country’s top general and commander of the armed forces has stressed the importance of being prepared for “total defense” should Moscow’s aggression extend to neighboring nations.
