The Maldives has unveiled its new Ajban 4×4 light armored vehicles to the public for the first time.
The presentation, held during the military’s 133rd anniversary parade in Malé, involved Ajban systems in their 442A variant designed for observation, command, and communication tasks.
Abu Dhabi’s state-owned EDGE Group confirmed the Maldives’ unannounced procurement of the platforms as part of the UAE’s cooperation with the South Asian government.
EDGE Group subsidiary NIMR Automotive is responsible for the production and supply of the Ajban technology.
“As a strategic defence partner to the Maldives, we have delivered high-mobility AJBAN 442A vehicles to the [Maldives National Defence Force], reinforcing our ongoing commitment to supporting our partners across the region with mission-ready solutions,” EDGE Group stated.
The Ajban 442A Chassis
The Ajban 442A measures 6 meters (20 feet) long, has a crew capacity of five, and can carry up to 4,000 kilograms (8,818 pounds) of payload.
It is protected by ballistic and blast armor and a V-hull under chassis structure to guard against mine explosions.
The vehicle is fitted with a roof-mounted self-defense weapon for combat missions, and is powered by a six-speed automatic transmission as well as a water-cooled turbocharged diesel engine with about 360 horsepower.
Ajban has a top speed of 110 kilometers (68 miles) per hour and a range of 700 kilometers (435 miles).
In addition to the 442A configuration, EDGE Group offers the system in the 432AU variant for logistics and utility applications and in the 452A variant for artillery support, internal security, medical, and troop transport tasks.
