The overriding objective of this strategic deal is to further strengthen the defense capabilities of the Enigma (photo) through the installation of complex weapon systems which are perfectly compatible with the 8x8 combat vehicle.
Saeed Saif Bin Jabr Al Suwaidi, Chairman of Emirates Defense Technology, said: “The demand for advanced armored vehicles is constantly on the rise. This agreement reinforces our commitment to acquire advanced defense management equipment for forces to achieve enhanced operational capabilities and a higher level of effectiveness.”
Following on from the Enigma’s official introduction in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces on the inaugural day of IDEX, Mohamed Bin Jabr Al Suwaidi, CEO of Emirates Defense Technology said: “This MoU shows the sustained intent to offer a variety of solutions, further developing the flexibility of the Enigma platform.”
The integrated weapon system at the heart of the MoU will consist of presenting the All Weather Anti-Tank Missile Complex “Khrizantema-S” during IDEX 2015 and continue to market the solution to potential customers. EDT and the Russian state-owned companies also intend to sign an agreement to supply Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) for the in-service UAE "Leclerc" Main Battle Tanks and BMP-3 infantry vehicles.
The Enigma 8x8 provides high-levels of protection, heavy weapons systems, amphibious capabilities, an unrivalled spacious interior that can accommodate 11 personnel, all without compromising the28-ton vehicle’s mobility.
The production of the Enigma will be at EDT’s facility in Abu Dhabi, where it has already undertaken stringent tests ahead of its official introduction at IDEX, will further support the UAE’s development of an indigenous defense industry and enhance EDT’s global reputation as a modern and progressive defense company.
Enigma is designed to be compatible with a variety of weapon systems, which makes the Armored Modular Fighting Vehicle (AMFV) suitable to armed forces around the world. This includes the Self Propelled M777 variant, which provides a high mobility Howitzer solution, due to the lightweight titanium gun built by BAE Systems. Enigma also provides solutions for different air defense applications - including the Rheinmetall Sky Ranger 35 mm turret. It is also compatible with the UralVagonZavod (UVZ) AU220M - a medium caliber turret that has been enhanced with Western standard electro-optics.
