The Indian Army has taken another step towards modernising its frontline infantry by issuing a Request for Proposal to procure 450 Carl Gustaf Mk-IV recoilless rocket launchers along with accessories and spare parts. The Indian Army Carl Gustaf Mk-IV acquisition is aimed at replacing older systems with a lighter and more capable weapon that can deliver greater mobility, accuracy and firepower across diverse battlefields.
The proposed induction comes as the Army continues to upgrade its infantry equipment to meet evolving operational challenges along India’s northern and western borders. Officials expect deliveries to begin within a year of signing the contract, highlighting the urgency attached to the programme.
Indian Army’s Carl Gustaf Mk-IV to strengthen infantry firepower
The Indian Army’s Carl Gustaf Mk-IV procurement focuses on equipping infantry formations with a weapon that is significantly lighter than previous variants. According to the RFP, the launcher must weigh no more than seven kilograms and have a barrel life of at least 1,500 rounds or 15 years.
The army has also specified that the weapon should provide an effective engagement range of 350-800 metres while offering greater accuracy and reliability than the Carl Gustaf Mk-III currently in service.
Designed to perform in demanding conditions, the launcher must operate effectively in temperatures ranging from minus 20 degrees Celsius to plus 50 degrees Celsius. This makes the Indian Army Carl Gustaf Mk-IV suitable for deployment in high-altitude sectors such as Ladakh and Siachen as well as desert regions in Rajasthan.
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Modern battlefield demands drive procurement
The Indian Army’s Carl Gustaf Mk-IV programme reflects the military’s emphasis on improving mobility and tactical flexibility at the infantry level. Modern combat increasingly requires portable weapon systems capable of engaging enemy armour, bunkers, and fortified positions while remaining easy to carry across difficult terrain.
The procurement also includes a long-term support package, with the selected vendor expected to provide product support for 15 years, along with a two-year warranty. Participation remains restricted for companies from countries sharing a land border with India, in line with current defence procurement guidelines.
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Saab’s proven launcher remains a global benchmark
Developed by Swedish defence manufacturer Saab, the Carl Gustaf Mk-IV has become one of the world’s most widely deployed shoulder-fired recoilless weapon systems. The latest version incorporates titanium and carbon-fibre construction, reducing weight while maintaining durability.
The Indian Army’s Carl Gustaf Mk-IV can fire multiple ammunition types, enabling troops to engage tanks, enemy fortifications, field defences and personnel with a single platform. Its versatility has made it a preferred choice for armed forces operating in conventional as well as counter-insurgency environments.
The Indian Army Carl Gustaf Mk-IV induction is expected to significantly improve the operational effectiveness of infantry units and further accelerate India’s ongoing military modernisation programme.