The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) are receiving a major boost to their mechanised capabilities, with more than 100 armoured vehicles currently en route from the United Arab Emirates. The shipment, supplied by Emirati defence contractor International Golden Group (IGG), is part of a wider order of roughly 160 vehicles valued at around $70 million.
By Jarryd Sinovich
The deliveries come as FARDC continues to face persistent security challenges in the country’s east, where rebel groups such as the M23 employ guerrilla warfare and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Several Kasser II vehicles have already been deployed to frontline areas, providing troops with enhanced mobility and protection in mine-infested terrain and ambush-prone regions.
Among the incoming assets, the Kasser II is a mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicle designed for multirole operations, including personnel transport and fire support. Manufactured in the UAE under IGG, the Kasser II offers protection against small-arms fire, IEDs, and anti-tank mines. Some units are configured with heavier weaponry—such as 20 mm cannons or 12.7 mm heavy machine guns—to provide direct fire capability in high-threat zones.
Initial deliveries in 2024 saw about 50 vehicles enter service, followed in May 2025 by an additional batch of 30 units unloaded at the port of Matadi in Kongo-Central Province. These have since been distributed to strategic locations, including Kisangani, Kindu, and eastern combat areas.
First unveiled at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi in February 2021, the Kasser II drew attention from African militaries seeking to modernise their fleets. It weighs 16.1 tonnes unladen and up to 17.2 tonnes in full combat configuration, powered by a Cummins 8.9-litre turbo diesel engine producing 400 hp, paired with an Allison SP3200 transmission. Capable of reaching 110 km/h on road, the vehicle balances heavy armour with operational mobility. Measuring 7.05 m in length, 2.64 m in width, and 2.81 m in height, it can carry a crew of three (commander, driver, gunner) plus up to six passengers—or eleven personnel without a weapon station, nine with one installed.
Armour protection is rated to B7+ ballistic levels, with mine resistance certified to STANAG 4569 Level 4a/4b standards, enabling survival against significant underbody blasts. A lightweight remote weapon station is standard, often fitted with a 14.5 mm KPVT machine gun but adaptable for 12.7 mm or 7.62 mm guns, or a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.
The Kasser II’s silhouette bears a strong resemblance to South Africa’s Reva V armoured vehicle from Integrated Convoy Protection (ICP), though it is officially produced by M4 Industries, an Abu Dhabi-based manufacturer little known before 2021. ICP has declined to comment on the similarities. Industry observers also note that the vehicle shares many design traits with Turkey’s BMC Kirpi II MRAP, with modifications for UAE export requirements.
For the FARDC, the acquisition represents a significant reinforcement of armoured mobility at a time when eastern provinces remain volatile. In asymmetric warfare environments, the Kasser II’s protection, firepower, and adaptability are expected to improve troop survivability and operational effectiveness.
