24 · MT 5/2022 Feature The demands of current and future peer-on-peer warfare cover the gambit from hypersonic missiles to the individual soldier and his squad. A major concern for these later frontline fighters is being engaged by enemy troops from concealed and protected positions. In Afghanistan dismounted squads taken under fire by hidden emplaced machine guns were unable to respond effectively with their own weapons. This is even more difficult in urban fighting with small units having limited ability to neutralize threats protected by masonry and concrete instead needing to clear building in costly close combat. Future combat is projected to see both greater conflict in builtup areas and dispersed combat by small units. In these encounters, as evident in the Ukrainian fighting, these units need to rely on their own resources. For the dismounted infantry squad and platoon these consist primarily of rifles and automatic rifles or light machine guns. All fire a solid bullet that must impact to be effective although selected soldiers have 30 or 40mm underslung grenade launchers firing low velocity exploding rounds to up to 350 meters. These, however, have limited effect against emplaced targets and armoured vehicles. Over forty-five of the worlds’ militaries have found the solution for these future battlefield challenges in weapon that was first fielded in 1948 – the Swedish Saab Bofors Dynamics Carl-Gustaf recoilless gun! Stephen W. Miller Carl-Gustaf Changes Future Small Unit Combat The range of ammunition for the Carl-Gustaf has contributed to its continued popularity as a dismounted infantry weapon: anti-armour, HE, illumination, and smoke address multiple mission needs. New types have been continually introduced to meet demand and enhance capability. (Photos: GDOTS and Saab) f h Upgrades and improvements to the weapon and its ammunition have not only contributed to its relevance but have expanded its tactical value. The latest M4 version can be equipped with digital sights to calibrate ballistic aiming, further enhancing range and accuracy. In addition, it allows use of the M448 programable ammunition that can be set for optimum target effect. (Photo: Saab) f
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