New Delhi/Stockholm – In the backdrop of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and escalating concerns of a potential conflict between India and Pakistan, Swedish defence manufacturer SAAB has announced the successful delivery of its AT4 Anti-Armor weapon system to the Indian Armed Forces.
In an official post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), SAAB India stated, “We are proud to announce the successful delivery of our AT4 anti-armor weapon system to the Indian Armed Forces. The AT4 is now part of India’s arsenal as a trusted single-shot solution for close-range combat.”
India has specifically procured the AT4CS AST variant, designed for use in urban warfare, bunkers, and built-up structures. The addition of this system significantly enhances the Indian Army’s tactical strength, especially in counter-terror operations and mountainous terrain where adversaries often take cover in fortified hideouts.
Strategic Advantage for Indian Forces
The AT4 system is a shoulder-fired, single-use, recoilless weapon, weighing approximately 7.5 to 9 kg. It comes preloaded with a HEAT (High Explosive Anti-Tank) warhead capable of neutralizing tanks, armored vehicles, bunkers, and low-flying helicopters. With an effective range of up to 300 meters, the system allows infantry soldiers to engage high-value targets with precision, even in tight spaces like buildings or behind cover.
The compact design and ease of use make the AT4 a critical asset during close-quarter combat situations. Given the rising frequency of urban and cross-border threats, including proxy wars and insurgencies, the procurement of the AT4 strengthens India’s rapid response capabilities.
Procurement and Usage
India placed an order for approximately 2,000 units of the AT4 under a competitive procurement process finalized in 2022. Both the Army and Air Force are reportedly fielding the system, which adds to their existing stock of shoulder-fired anti-tank weapons.
India is no stranger to SAAB’s weaponry. The Indian Army has been using the Carl-Gustaf shoulder-fired system since 1976, with around seven variants in current operation. The AT4 system shares many of the tactical benefits of the Carl-Gustaf but is lighter, more portable, and disposable after single use. The Indian version of Carl-Gustaf is manufactured locally by Bharat Dynamics Ltd, reinforcing India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative in defense.
Global Impact and Battlefield Performance
The AT4 is also widely used by armed forces in the United States, Australia, France, Germany, and Ukraine. In the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, Ukrainian soldiers have effectively used the AT4 to destroy Russian tanks and fortified enemy positions.
Given its proven battlefield success and versatility, India’s acquisition of the AT4 comes at a strategically critical juncture. With border tensions on the rise and the security situation in Kashmir under strain, the AT4 system is expected to give Indian forces a crucial edge in both defensive and offensive operations.
As geopolitical uncertainty looms, the delivery of the AT4 signals India’s readiness to modernize its infantry capabilities and respond swiftly to evolving threats in the region.
