Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — On July 25, 2024, the Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) significantly enhanced its defense capabilities with the acquisition of hundreds of Calidus MCAV-20 Mobile Combat Armored Vehicles from the United Arab Emirates. This major procurement marks a significant step in the ongoing modernization of Ethiopia’s military equipment.
On July 20, several MCAV-20 vehicles were spotted in transit by rail, making their way to the capital, Addis Ababa. This deployment highlights Ethiopia’s commitment to improving the mobility and protection of its armed forces in response to contemporary threats.
A New Era of Military Capability
The MCAV-20, one of the flagship vehicles of Calidus, a company renowned for its military vehicle innovations, joins the ranks of Ethiopia’s defense arsenal. Alongside other notable models such as the lightweight 4×4 LRV-20 and the Al Wahash 8×8, the MCAV-20 is celebrated for its impressive specifications and versatility.
According to Calidus, the MCAV-20 is powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine that produces 300 horsepower. This enables the vehicle to achieve a top speed of 110 km/h and a range of 800 kilometers. Weighing between 7 and 9 tons, the MCAV-20 is equipped with an independent suspension system and robust armor capable of withstanding small arms fire and artillery shrapnel. Its underbody is also designed to withstand explosions, ensuring optimal crew protection.
The vehicle’s intelligent hull design allows for the integration of various turrets and weapon stations, enhancing its adaptability for diverse missions. It can be equipped with a 30mm cannon, a 7.62mm machine gun, and a 40mm grenade launcher, making it suitable for a wide range of combat situations.
Global Adoption and Reliability
The MCAV-20’s effectiveness and reliability are not only recognized by the Ethiopian army. The vehicle has also been adopted by the Sudanese Armed Forces, the Republican Guard of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the military forces of Mozambique and Mauritania. This widespread international adoption underscores the vehicle’s dependability in various operational environments.
Strategic Acquisition and Future Collaborations
The arrival of the Calidus MCAV-20 armored vehicles in Ethiopia signifies a major advancement for the ENDF. With these new assets, the Ethiopian army is now better equipped to ensure the country’s security and stability. This strategic acquisition also strengthens the military cooperation between Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates, paving the way for future collaborations in defense and security.
As Ethiopia continues to modernize its military, the addition of the MCAV-20 vehicles demonstrates a clear commitment to enhancing national defense capabilities, providing the armed forces with the necessary tools to face contemporary threats effectively.
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