Nigerian Army now uses ERAF Tares armored vehicles from Saudi Arabia.

The Nigerian Army is now operating Tares armored vehicles after having just taken delivery of the new type from Saudi Arabia’s ERAF Industrial Company, Guy Martin reports in defenseWeb. ERAF was established in Saudi Arabia in 1996 and specialises in land, naval and power systems, including armored vehicles and remote weapon stations.
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ERAF Tares MPV (Picture source: ERAF)

In August of 2023, online photographs surfaced, showing approximately 15 Tares vehicles being transported on trucks from Onne Port in Rivers State. The official confirmation of this acquisition arrived on September 25th, when the Nigerian Army disclosed that it had initiated a two-week training program for its personnel involving the recently acquired mine-protected vehicles.

The training involving these new vehicles is being conducted by Altum Solutions, a company specializing in aircrew mine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief training, advisory services, as well as operational support, which encompasses logistics and vehicle procurement, including armored and all-terrain vehicles.

ERAF’s Tares 4×4 is powered by a 6.7 liter V8 (Euro 3) turbodiesel engine developing 330 hp at 2,600 rpm, enabling the vehicle to reach a top speed of 120 km/h. The range averages 600 km. The vehicle is equipped with a manual rear differential lock, providing the driver with control over traction and stability when navigating challenging off-road conditions.

The vehicle offers mine protection up to NATO STANAG Level II. The Nigerian Army vehicles are fitted with a roof-mounted turret. As per customer requirements. To enhance visibility and safety, a rear-view camera is integrated into the vehicle, offering a clear view of the surroundings.

ERAF TARES MPVs ordered by the Nigerian Army are fitted with an armored manual turret option, rear thermal/NV camera and LED lights (Picture source: ERAF)

Defense News October 2023