The Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) has taken delivery of an additional batch of Calidus MCAV-20 armoured vehicles from the United Arab Emirates in early 2026, reinforcing ongoing efforts to modernise its motorised infantry and border security units.
Military logistics movements observed in March 2026 indicate that newly manufactured vehicles were transported by rail from the Port of Djibouti to Addis Ababa. The shipment follows an earlier large-scale induction in July 2024, when dozens of MCAV-20s were first identified moving along the Ethio-Djibouti railway corridor. The phased acquisition forms part of a broader initiative to replace ageing Soviet-era transport platforms and streamline fleet commonality across operational units.
In addition to the armoured vehicles, the procurement package includes heavy logistics trucks intended to support military engineering tasks and cargo transport. Chief of General Staff Field Marshal Birhanu Jula underscored in a February 2026 address that such acquisitions are central to a wider reform programme aimed at building a more agile and technologically enabled force.
The deal also reflects a strengthening defence relationship between Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi. Beyond armoured mobility, cooperation has extended into small arms procurement, with elements of the Ethiopian Republican Guard now equipped with rifles produced by UAE-based manufacturer Caracal.
Versatile platform tailored for regional operations
Developed by Abu Dhabi-based defence company Calidus, the MCAV-20 is a multi-role 4×4 armoured vehicle designed to bridge the capability gap between light tactical vehicles and heavier infantry fighting vehicles. Since its debut at IDEX 2021, the platform has gained traction among African operators seeking a balance between mobility, protection and cost-effectiveness.
The vehicle weighs between seven and nine tons and is powered by a 6.7-litre Cummins diesel engine producing approximately 300 to 330 horsepower. This configuration enables a top speed of around 110 km/h and an operational range of up to 800 kilometres. Its independent suspension system is optimised for rough terrain, making it well suited for the diverse operational environments of the Horn of Africa.
A key strength of the MCAV-20 lies in its modularity. The platform can be configured with a range of weapon systems including a 30 mm cannon, 40 mm grenade launcher or 7.62 mm machine gun, depending on mission requirements. Protection levels are designed to withstand small arms fire and artillery fragments, while a blast-resistant hull enhances survivability against mines and improvised explosive devices.
Regional adoption and strategic diversification
Ethiopia joins a growing list of MCAV-20 operators across the continent, including Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Chad, Benin and Mauritania. Uganda also confirmed its adoption of the platform in 2024, alongside the training of dedicated driver cadres.
The acquisition is part of a wider Ethiopian strategy to diversify its defence procurement sources. Historically reliant on Russian and Chinese systems, Addis Ababa has in recent years expanded its supplier base. This includes Turkish unmanned aerial systems such as the Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci, Chinese SH-5 self-propelled artillery and continued operation of Russian-origin platforms including the Yak-130 advanced jet trainer and Orion-E UAV.
The integration of the MCAV-20 is expected to enhance the ENDF’s operational flexibility, particularly in internal security and border protection roles. By introducing a modern, standardised 4×4 fleet, the force aims to reduce maintenance complexity, improve deployment speed and increase the effectiveness of its Quick Reaction Forces.
Further field training and operational integration exercises involving the newly delivered vehicles are anticipated throughout 2026 as the ENDF continues to refine its evolving force structure.
