Mozambique has acquired a number of UAE-based Calidus MCAV-20 armoured vehicles.
Delegates from the Mozambican Ministry of defense published in photographs in March 2023 showing a visit to Calidus in the UAE.
They were shown various equipment by Calidus, in which they subsequently had a discussion on procurement. Few weeks later, local Mozambican news shows the MCAV-20 armoured vehicle in use by the Mozambican Army.
The UAE-made Calidus MCAV-20 is a 4×4 armoured vehicle that was first unveiled at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi in 2021. The vehicle is designed to provide a high level of protection for its crew and passengers, while also being highly mobile and capable of carrying a variety of weapons systems.
The MCAV-20 is powered by a 6.7-litre Cummins diesel engine that produces 300 horsepower. This gives the vehicle a top speed of 110 kilometres per hour and a range of 800 kilometres. The MCAV-20 is also equipped with a fully independent suspension system that provides a smooth ride even over rough terrain.
The MCAV-20’s armour is capable of protecting against small arms fire and artillery shrapnel. The vehicle also has a blast-proof underbody that can withstand the blast of an improvised explosive device (IED). The MCAV-20 can be fitted with a variety of weapons systems, including a 30mm cannon, a 7.62mm machine gun, and a 40mm grenade launcher.
The MCAV-20 is a relatively new armoured vehicle, however, it is gathering a large number of users particularly in Africa.
Sudan, DRC are operating Emirati-made Calidus MCAV-20 armoured vehicle. Also, Mauritania and Ethiopia are recent operators of the armoured vehicle.