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Hybrid-electric drive technology may address the growing energy demands of land warfare in future.
More than 600,000 AT4s have been delivered to US forces. (Photo: Saab)
The Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) framework agreement was originally signed in 2019 and the extension will allow the US to place orders for Saab’s close combat solutions up to an additional $422 million.
The new order within the framework includes AT4CS RS systems and the latest high-explosive round for the Carl-Gustaf Weapon System, HE 448, designated as HE 441E in the US.
The AT4CS RS is a soldier-portable and fully disposable anti-armour system which entered service the US Army in 1985 and since then 700,000 systems have been delivered to US forces. Fifteen countries around the world currently deploy the AT4CS RS and/or its variants.
US Army orders Carl-Gustaf ammunition and AT4 systems
US orders additional Carl-Gustaf ammunition and AT4 systems
The deal follows one 12 months ago worth $81.4 million for the same equipment under the 2019 IDIQ framework and a $100 million order in July 2020.
Since 1987, Saab has delivered more than 600,000 AT4s, both directly and under license, to US forces. The AT4 family has been exported to more than 25 countries, with over 300,000 produced under licence by ATK for US forces as the M136.
Hybrid-electric drive technology may address the growing energy demands of land warfare in future.
The Common Armoured Vehicle System is continuing to rack up orders as the British Army looks likely to become an operator of the vehicle, while Italy and Ireland are also contenders.
As the US Department of Defense looks to counter the growing threat of uncrewed aerial systems to improve homeland security, the DroneHunter acquisition could point to future commercial innovation.
The selection of Hanwha’s K239 Chunmoo long-range precision fires system, with a contract expected to be signed on 30 January, makes Norway the second European country to choose the system. It is expected an operational system will be in service within four years.
This year has begun with main battle tanks taking the lead while orders for large logistics and support vehicles continued from last year. Additionally, two of the British Army’s most significant contracted vehicle programmes, Ajax reconnaissance vehicle and Challenger 3 tank, continued to make news in January.
Canada is improving its Leopard main battle tank fleet but before this is fully completed, it is expected to begin looking for new vehicles.