Rare 'Swedish K' Submachine Gun from Vietnam War Unveiled in Da Nang

A rare weapon from the Vietnam War is now on display at the Ho Chi Minh Trail Museum in Da Nang. The Carl Gustaf m/45B submachine gun, known as the 'Swedish K' to U.S. forces, was a quiet but effective tool in covert operations. Its simple design and reliability made it a favourite among special forces and intelligence units. The m/45B was originally manufactured in Sweden and chambered for the standard 9x19mm NATO round. Its blowback action, stamped-steel construction, and minimal controls allowed for easy maintenance in harsh conditions. Some versions were even fitted with an integral suppressor, reducing noise to levels quieter than an unsuppressed 9mm shot.

The suppressor worked through a ported barrel and an enclosed expansion chamber packed with mesh. This design helped mask gunfire, making it harder for enemy forces to detect its use. The weapon’s ruggedness and simplicity earned it a reputation among U.S. special forces, particularly those operating under MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, Studies and Observations Group). One of the few surviving suppressed models is now exhibited at the Ho Chi Minh Trail Museum. The museum’s location is near where MACV-SOG was based during the war, adding historical weight to the display.

The Swedish K remains a lesser-known but significant part of Vietnam War history. Its presence in the museum offers a tangible link to the covert operations of the era. Visitors can now see firsthand how its design contributed to its effectiveness in secret missions.