On July 25, 2024, Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) recently enhanced its defense capabilities by taking delivery of hundreds of Calidus MCAV-20 armored vehicles provided by the United Arab Emirates. This acquisition marks an important step in the modernization of Ethiopia’s military equipment.
On July 20, several MCAV-20 vehicles were spotted in transit by rail heading towards the capital, Addis Ababa. This deployment underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to improving the mobility and protection of its armed forces in the face of contemporary threats.
The MCAV-20 is one of the flagship vehicles of Calidus, a company renowned for its innovations in military vehicles. Alongside the lightweight 4×4 LRV-20 and the Al Wahash 8×8, the MCAV-20 stands out for its impressive specifications and versatility.
According to the Calidus website, the MCAV-20 is powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine producing 300 horsepower, enabling the vehicle to reach a top speed of 110 km/h and a range of 800 kilometers. Weighing between 7 and 9 tons, the vehicle is equipped with an independent suspension system and robust armor capable of withstanding small arms fire and artillery shrapnel. Additionally, its underbody is designed to withstand explosions, thereby ensuring optimal crew protection.
The intelligent hull design of the MCAV-20 allows for the integration of various turrets and weapon stations, enhancing its adaptability to 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.
The MCAV-20 is not only favored by the Ethiopian army. It has also been adopted by the Sudanese Armed Forces, the Republican Guard of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the military forces of Mozambique and Mauritania. This international adoption testifies to the vehicle’s reliability and effectiveness in various operational environments.
The arrival of the Calidus MCAV-20 armored vehicles in Ethiopia represents 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.
