Finland orders anti-tank weapon from Saab

Next-generation Light Anti-tank Weapon system from Saab of Sweden are to be supplied to the Finnish Defense Force under an order worth $35.7 million.

Saab's NLAW is a short-range, shoulder-fired weapon with predicted line-of-sight guidance. It was originally developed for Sweden and Great Britain.

The contract for Finland, which first ordered the system in 2007, includes training equipment and an option for additional orders.

Saab did not indicate the number of systems ordered but said delivery of NLAW systems will take place this year.

"This is more proof of our customers' trust in the system," said Görgen Johansson, head of Saab's Dynamics business area. "With this order the anti-armor capability of the Finnish Defence Forces will be further enhanced. Using NLAW an individual soldier has the ability to take out any heavily-protected armored vehicle, including a main battle tank, with a single shot."

"Experience shows that when it comes to effects and ease-of-use the NLAW anti-tank weapon is very well suited to the Finnish Defence Forces, particularly when it comes to new ways of taking on the battlefield," added Anders Gardberg, managing director Saab International Finland Oy.