Saudi Arabia Debuts New Jais Mk 2 4×4 Armored Vehicles at National Day Parade

On September 22, 2024, the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) showcased its latest addition to their military fleet during the Saudi National Day parade in Al-Jubail—the newly acquired Nimr Jais Mk 2 4×4 armored vehicles. This marks the first public appearance of the vehicles, as captured in photographs released by the Saudi Ministry of Defense (MoD). The images reveal two vehicles emblazoned with the badge of the UAE-based company Nimr, part of the EDGE Group. The vehicles were equipped with remotely operated weapon stations resembling the Guardian 2 model, developed by Spain’s Escribano Mechanical and Engineering (EM&E), and were mounted with .50 caliber heavy machine guns.

The Nimr Jais Mk 2 represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, offering enhanced survivability and modern capabilities suited for military operations in the Middle East’s harsh desert environments. As a mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicle, the Jais Mk 2 is designed to withstand conventional and asymmetric warfare, providing superior protection for both crew and critical onboard systems. The vehicle is equipped with a completely modernized electrical system, offering increased payload capacity and internal crew space, while maintaining its overall weight class. The Jais Mk 2 is also optimized for battlefield ergonomics, boasting reduced thermal signatures and electromagnetic interference (EMI) compliance, making it a formidable presence in both combat and support roles.

The Jais Mk 2 is produced at Nimr’s facilities in Abu Dhabi. These vehicles have been battle-tested and are certified to provide high levels of protection against ballistic threats, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and under-vehicle mines. The vehicle’s upgraded armor and newly added emergency fuel tank, shielded by armor plating, give it an impressive operational range of up to 50 kilometers under emergency conditions. The Jais Mk 2 features independent suspension systems, allowing for exceptional on-road and off-road mobility. Its impressive specifications include a cruising range of 700 kilometers, a payload capacity of 3,000 kg, and a maximum speed of 100 km/h. Designed to tackle harsh terrains, the vehicle can cross trenches up to 900 mm wide, climb 500 mm steps, and ford through 900 mm of water. Additionally, it supports a maximum gradient climb of 60%, ensuring it can operate effectively in extreme environments.

Nimr, under the EDGE Group umbrella, has rapidly become a leading manufacturer of combat-proven military vehicles. The launch of the Jais Mk 2 is part of a broader upgrade to Nimr’s entire product line, including the AJBAN and HAFEET models, all of which now feature second-generation designs. This ongoing commitment to innovation positions Nimr as a key player in the global defense market. The public display of the Jais Mk 2 in Saudi Arabia is seen as a precursor to further military advancements. As Saudi Arabia continues to modernize its armed forces, the addition of the Nimr Jais Mk 2 vehicles signals a strategic focus on enhancing the mobility, survivability, and combat effectiveness of its military. The Jais Mk 2’s robust features and combat-ready design make it a critical asset in the kingdom’s defense strategy. The collaboration with the UAE’s Nimr company is poised to strengthen regional defense ties while boosting Saudi Arabia’s readiness for modern warfare.