"Shot and gone": UAE unveils MATV004 armored car with Alheda missiles

Alheda Missile System

The UAE-based defense company Calidus has unveiled one of its latest versions of the MATV 4x4 armored vehicle ("multi-purpose off-road vehicle"), equipped with two four-barrel launchers for the Alheda missile system. This modification, designated MATV004, works on the principle of "shot and gone", which implies a quick firing of UR and a change of position.

The MATV001 4x4, first introduced in March 2025, is the basic version of the family. It has a gross weight of 14 tons, is equipped with a 360 hp engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, reaches speeds of up to 120 km/h on the roads and has a range of 700 km. The cabin can accommodate 5 people: 2 in the front and 3 in the back. Access to the cabin is through two doors on each side. In the back there is a platform for transporting goods or equipment.

MATV001

The MATV004 variant, designed to install the Alheda ATGM, is designed for 3 people, which allows you to place a rocket launcher. It retained the same suspension, transmission, and off-road performance.

The protection level of all MATV variants is not disclosed and is described only as "high in accordance with the requirements of the STANAG 4569 standard", which implies the MRAP class. The load capacity of the vehicle is 3,900 kg, which allows the installation of modular armor sets, weapon mounts or specialized systems.

MATV004

Other MATV variants include an amphibious transport configuration designed for 10 people and a reconnaissance version for 2 people. The entire MATV family was developed by UAE specialists with a focus on modular design and localization of production.

The Alheda rocket was first introduced in 2023. It is produced by the Missile Defense division of Calidus and is a missile launcher with a diameter of 140 mm, a length of 1.8 m and a weight of 37 kg, designed to destroy ground and air targets. The maximum firing range is about 10 km.

Navigation in the middle section of the trajectory is carried out by means of an ANN, and guidance at the final stage of flight is carried out using a semi–active laser seeker or an IR seeker, depending on the configuration. The types of warheads are modular and can be both high-explosive and anti-tank.

In March, at IDEX 2025, among other deals, two contracts were signed – for the supply of MATV machines (worth €456 million) and the Alheda missile system (worth $1 billion).