Wahash armored vehicle steals the show at WDS 2024 in Saudi Arabia.

At the World Defense Show (WDS) 2024, currently underway in Saudi Arabia, one participant in particular has captured our attention: the Wahash. This 8x8 armored vehicle, developed by the Emirati company Calidus in collaboration with ADG Mobility in South Africa, was showcased during an outdoor show. The vehicle is designed to fulfill a wide range of missions, from combat to surveillance and counter-insurgency.
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The Wahash during an outdoor show at WDS 2024 (Picture source: Army Recognition)

WDS 2024, a leading event in the defense industry, has provided an ideal platform to highlight the latest innovations in defense and security. It is within this setting that the Wahash was displayed during an outdoor exercise.

Developed in response to the stringent requirements of modern combat environments, the Wahash integrates a monocoque steel hull offering superior payload capacity and protection. Capable of adapting to various roles based on the needs of end-users, it can be configured as an infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) or an armored personnel carrier (APC), among other platforms. Its digital generic vehicle architecture allows for the integration of multiple command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems.

The Wahash also stands out for its standard equipment, including a Kaller ride height adjustment system, TEK seats, an Ametek air conditioning system, and an Ortana camera system. Its armament, which can include the BM-3 combat module or other remotely controlled weapon stations, provides considerable firepower. This includes a BM-3M Shturm remotely controlled turret equipped with a ZTM-1 30mm cannon, a KT 7.62mm machine gun, a KBA-117 30mm automatic grenade launcher, 902B smoke grenade launchers, and two Bar'er anti-tank missile launchers.

In terms of protection, the Wahash offers resistance up to STANAG 4569 level 4 against bullets and mines, as well as protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs), 155mm artillery shell splinters, and mine explosions under the wheels and center of the vehicle. Its mobility is provided by a 724hp Scania DC 13 engine, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 130 km/h and a range of 750 km. The vehicle is fully amphibious, with rear-mounted propellers enabling it to navigate at a maximum speed of 10 km/h.

The demonstration of this vehicle was more than welcome and undoubtedly the most impressive of all the vehicles presented during the outdoor show. This allowed us to see the vehicle in action and to get a demonstration of its potential.