Saab has secured an order from the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) for its Carl-Gustaf M4 multi-role weapon system, marking New Zealand’s transition to the latest version of the Carl-Gustaf family.

New Zealand has used earlier versions of the Carl-Gustaf system for years. The new procurement includes man-portable M4 weapon systems as well as training and simulation capabilities for New Zealand forces.

The Carl-Gustaf M4 is a lighter and more compact version of the weapon. It weighs less than 7 kilograms and has an overall length of less than 1 meter, according to Saab.

The system is designed to work with advanced sights and programmable ammunition while retaining compatibility with legacy 84 mm Carl-Gustaf ammunition. An integrated fired-round counter is also intended to support maintenance and logistics management.

The procurement also places New Zealand alongside Australia, which has previously ordered the Carl-Gustaf M4 and associated Saab fire-control equipment.

The Carl-Gustaf family is used by military forces in a number of countries and is designed as a multi-role system for infantry applications.