The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded Saab a 229-million-pound ($278 million) contract to provide next-generation light anti-tank weapons (NLAW) for the British Army.
Delivery will take place between 2024 and 2026. Thales will then assemble them at its facility in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
“Demand is increasing for anti-tank systems such as NLAW. We look forward to further strengthening our close relationship with the UK and are proud to continue delivering our proven and trusted anti-tank capability,” Saab CEO and President Micael Johansson said.
NLAW Restock
The procurement will replenish the British Army’s shoulder-launched missile stocks after sending Ukrainian forces the weapons to defend against the Russian invasion.
A separate contract will deliver 500 NLAWs to the UK by 2023 in addition to the thousand units expected from the latest agreement.
Maintaining Missile Supplies
The NLAW combines the capability of light anti-armor weapons and heavy, crew-operated guided missile systems, enabling warfighters to intercept targets from above.
A single soldier can operate the missile system to engage heavily armored tanks from 20 to 800 meters away.
“These next generation light anti-tank weapons have played a decisive role in supporting Ukraine’s army to drive back Russia’s illegal invading forces,” UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace explained.
“Working with our first-class industry partners, we are continuing to fulfil our commitment to NATO by ensuring our Armed Forces will receive a steady supply of these weapons over the coming years, whilst supporting UK jobs across the length and breadth of the country.”
Earlier this year, the UK announced 1 billion pounds ($1.2 billion) in military aid for Ukraine, which included over 5,000 NLAW anti-tank missiles.
