UAE Unveils Locally Produced Hybrid Autonomous Armoured Vehicle: Magnus

The UAE National Guard is set to revolutionize its fleet with the introduction of the Magnus, a locally produced hybrid autonomous armoured vehicle boasting a remarkable 900km travel range and cutting-edge surveillance technology. The vehicle was prominently featured at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi this week, where it garnered significant attention from defence officials and industry experts.

About IDEX 2025

IDEX (International Defence Exhibition & Conference) is one of the world’s largest and most strategically significant defence exhibitions, held biennially in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The event serves as a global platform for defence technology and innovation, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and military officials to showcase the latest advancements in defence and security. IDEX 2025, hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), features cutting-edge military solutions, live demonstrations, and discussions on emerging defence trends. The exhibition provides a key opportunity for companies to present new technologies like the Magnus and engage in strategic collaborations.

Developed by Kintsugi Holding, a government-owned company specializing in autonomous transport and humanoid robotics, the Magnus integrates advanced electrification, autonomous navigation, and military-grade protection. This marks a significant leap forward in the UAE’s defence capabilities, aligning with the nation’s ambition to lead in autonomous vehicle technology.

Superior Range and Performance

Compared to traditional military vehicles, the Magnus delivers enhanced range and efficiency. It can travel up to 900km in hybrid mode and 140km purely on electric power, with a top speed of 130kmph. “This is the first military vehicle of its kind with such advanced electric features,” stated Waleed Al Blooshi, head of communications at Kintsugi. The vehicle’s hybrid nature not only offers environmental benefits but also enhances security by allowing for quiet operation, reducing its detectability in combat zones.

The Magnus is engineered to function in diverse and challenging terrains, including sand, mud, rivers, and mountainous regions. With a 900-volt capacity powered by an 80kW battery, the vehicle also has the capability to charge auxiliary equipment without requiring an external power source. In emergencies, its onboard 110-liter diesel generator can provide additional power, ensuring uninterrupted performance in the field.

Unmatched Surveillance and Protection

The Magnus is outfitted with state-of-the-art surveillance and defence technology. According to First Lieutenant Abdulla Al Ahmad of the National Guard Capacity Development, the vehicle features thermal detection and 360-degree surveillance, making it especially effective for night operations. Its built-in drones can fly up to 2km high and cover a 5km range, providing real-time reconnaissance.

Unlike conventional military vehicles, the Magnus has no rear windows. Instead, personnel inside can monitor their surroundings through iPads linked to the surveillance system, which provides a live feed of movements within a 300-meter range. This feature enhances situational awareness and battlefield intelligence.

The vehicle’s exterior is constructed with bulletproof Kevlar and reinforced with composite ballistic steel, offering level two protection against landmines and incendiary devices. The combination of a composite chassis and armour panels provides maximum durability while maintaining a sleek and aggressive design.

Innovative Design and Engineering

Designed in partnership with veteran automotive expert Michael Robinson, the Magnus breaks away from traditional military vehicle aesthetics. “I wanted to introduce a new design philosophy into the defence sector,” said Robinson, who has over 45 years of experience in the Italian car industry. “Instead of the usual boxy look with flat, vertical windshields, we created a structurally robust but muscular and aggressive vehicle.”

The six-seater cabin of the Magnus rivals that of the Tesla Cybertruck in size and is equipped with high-tech features tailored for military and border patrol operations. The cockpit boasts a futuristic digital interface, a multifunctional steering wheel, and a 10.4-inch touchscreen with hotkeys for swift accessibility.

Expansion into Civil Defence and Law Enforcement

While the Magnus is primarily designed for military applications, its versatility has attracted interest from other sectors. Abu Dhabi Police has commissioned a smaller version of the Magnus, dubbed the Magnum, for motorway patrols and emergency response. Civil Defence authorities are also considering adding the vehicle to their fleet.

Kintsugi Holding has ambitious plans to extend its autonomous vehicle technology beyond military applications. The company is in discussions to develop a new fleet of robotaxis to address gaps in the autonomous taxi market. This follows recent challenges faced by U.S.-based Cruise, a subsidiary of General Motors, which halted its operations in San Francisco after a high-profile safety incident.

Sean Teo, managing director of Kintsugi Holding, emphasized the strategic importance of local manufacturing in ensuring safety and reliability. “The issues faced by other companies highlight the need for locally produced autonomous vehicles. By June, we expect to see about 20 of these vehicles operating across Abu Dhabi,” Teo revealed.

A Bold Step into the Future

The Magnus is currently in its prototype phase, with full-scale production slated to commence in 2027. Its unveiling at IDEX 2025 signals a major step in the UAE’s commitment to pioneering military technology and autonomous transport.

By combining hybrid-electric power, autonomous navigation, and next-generation defence systems, the Magnus represents a groundbreaking advancement in military mobility. With its robust design, extended operational range, and advanced surveillance capabilities, the vehicle is poised to redefine the future of modern warfare and security operations in the region and beyond.