New Zealand upgrades Army firepower with Saab Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon systems to replace ageing M3 inventory from 2027

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

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New Zealand upgrades Army firepower with Saab Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon systems to replace ageing M3 inventory from 2027

Photo: Saab.

New Zealand will acquire 26 Saab Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon systems for delivery in 2027, replacing M3 systems that are approaching the end of their service lives. The Ministry of Defence announced the agreement on 26 August.

The contract was negotiated directly with Saab without an open tender, reflecting New Zealand’s positive experience with the earlier version. The new weapons will be assigned to New Zealand Army units and a military training centre.

The Carl-Gustaf M4 is the latest version of Saab’s portable, shoulder-fired, multipurpose anti-tank weapon family. It is designed to support different combat roles while allowing soldiers to retain mobility and effectiveness across varying operational conditions.

The M4 combines a lighter design with improved accuracy and scope for future upgrades, according to the announcement. It can also operate with smart sighting systems and emerging technologies, including programmable ammunition.

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