IDEX 2025: Calidus showcases Wahash light infantry fighting vehicle

Emirati company Calidus unveiled a new variant of its Wahash 8×8 multi-role armoured vehicle at the IDEX 2025 defence exhibition, held in Abu Dhabi from 17-21 February.

This lighter version of the Wahash is designated as a light infantry fighting vehicle (LIFV). While the standard Wahash measures 8.5 m long, 2.7 m wide and 3.1 m in high, the new variant is slightly smaller, with dimensions of 8 m in length, 2.9 m in width, and 2.4 m in height. Unlike the original variant, this new version does not have amphibious capabilities. However, both variants share the same engine and transmission system. The vehicle is operated by a crew of  three and can transport up to 10 soldiers, although the prototype displayed at IDEX 2025 featured only eight seats.

The Wahash LIFV is equipped with the Nefer unmanned turret developed by Turkish company Aselsan. The turret houses a 30 mm 2A42 autocannon accompanied by a coaxial 12.7 mm or 7.6 2mm machine gun. Additionally, a remote weapon station mounted on top of the turret is armed with a 7.62 mm Aselsan SARP machine gun. The vehicle’s ammunition capacity includes 200 rounds for the autocannon and 500 rounds for the machine guns. The turret’s elevation range extends from -10° to +60°.

The Nefer turret features advanced capabilities such as fire-on-the-move for engaging both stationary and moving targets, day and night imaging systems, automatic target tracking, gyro-stabilisation, a laser rangefinder for precise ballistic calculations, a computerised fire control system, a shot counter and a low ammunition warning system. It also provides ballistic protection at STANAG 4569 Level 2.

On the left side of the turret a twin launcher for Al Heda anti-tank missiles is mounted. During IDEX 2025 the Emirati government signed a USD 1 billion (EUR 0.95 billion) contract with Calidus for the further development of the Al Heda missile system.

The Wahash LIFV can reach a maximum speed of 130 km/h, has a range of 700 km and is capable of climbing 70% gradients and handling 40% side slopes. It features approach and departure angles of 45° and can traverse trenches up to 2 m wide and vertical obstacles up to 0.8 m high.