Flash News: UAE’s EDGE AJBAN 442A Armored Vehicles Make Public Debut with Maldives Defense Forces.

On April 19, 2025, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) showcased its newly acquired NIMR AJBAN 442A armored vehicles, produced by the United Arab Emirates’ EDGE defense industry group, during its 133rd Anniversary Parade in Malé. This event marked the public debut of these advanced 4x4 tactical vehicles, which EDGE Group delivered as part of a strategic defense partnership.
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A NIMR AJBAN 442A armored vehicle, developed by UAE's EDGE Group, makes its public debut during the 133rd Anniversary Parade of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) in Malé on April 19, 2025, highlighting the growing defense partnership between the UAE and the Maldives. (Picture source: EDGE)

The Maldives National Defence Force military parade, which began at the Bandaarakoshi area and concluded near the Presidential Office, prominently featured the EDGE NIMR AJBAN 442A 4x4 armored vehicles from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), drawing attention to the MNDF’s growing capabilities. According to MNDF Command Sergeant Major Abdulla Saeed, these vehicles are designed for both soft and hard terrains and represent a significant upgrade over previous models. They will be deployed across various area commands of the MNDF, including in the capital, Malé, further enhancing operational readiness.

The AJBAN 442A is developed by NIMR Automotive, a subsidiary of the UAE’s EDGE Group, and is engineered for high mobility and protection in multi-role military operations. The vehicle is equipped with a powerful 268kW (360hp) engine, offering a top speed of 110 km/h and a cruising range of up to 700 km. With a ground clearance of 420 mm and approach and departure angles of 35°, it is optimized for challenging terrain, providing superior off-road mobility. Its design includes advanced ballistic and mine-blast protection through a V-hull structure, ensuring crew survivability in hostile environments. These capabilities make the AJBAN 442A a critical asset for defense forces operating in dynamic and potentially volatile environments.

The delivery of these vehicles also highlights the strengthening defense ties between the Maldives and the UAE. Over recent years, both nations have increased their military cooperation, engaging in bilateral agreements focused on training, maritime security, and technology transfer. This partnership is strategic for both sides, with the Maldives benefitting from cutting-edge defense solutions and the UAE further expanding its influence and defense footprint in the Indian Ocean region.

EDGE Group, which was launched in 2019, represents the UAE’s drive toward military industrial self-sufficiency and innovation. Within a short span, EDGE has emerged as a leading player in the global defense sector, specializing in autonomous systems, cyber defense, and advanced military vehicles. The export of the AJBAN 442A to the Maldives is a testament to EDGE’s capabilities and its role as a defense partner of choice in the region.

For the Maldives, the modernization of the MNDF is a national priority. The island nation's geographic location in the Indian Ocean makes it strategically significant, but also exposes it to a variety of non-traditional security threats. These include illegal maritime activities, regional geopolitical tensions, and the need for rapid humanitarian assistance in the face of climate-related events. By enhancing the MNDF’s mobility and tactical flexibility through assets like the AJBAN 442A, the country aims to safeguard its sovereignty and strengthen its disaster response capabilities.

Additionally, the Maldives is actively expanding its defense partnerships beyond its traditional allies. Earlier in April 2025, it received a Turkish-built Doğan-class fast attack craft, the TCG Volkan, signaling its commitment to diversifying defense procurement and strengthening naval operations. The integration of advanced vehicles and vessels from partners such as the UAE and Turkey reflects a broader strategic shift toward a more modern and responsive defense posture.

The participation of the AJBAN 442A armored vehicles manufactured by the UAE in the MNDF’s anniversary parade not only symbolizes a leap in ground combat readiness but also underscores the growing strategic relationship between the Maldives and the UAE. This collaboration showcases the UAE’s rising role in regional security through its robust defense industry, while enabling the Maldives to confront contemporary security challenges with modern, mission-ready assets.