BAE Systems’ ACV makes Middle East debut at IDEX

Above: A green ACV in the desert.
BAE Systems

BAE Systems’ Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) is making its debut in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2025.

This marks a significant milestone, as the programme aims at international expansion. The versatile platform is designed to operate in the most rugged and challenging terrain, making it an ideal solution for militaries around the world.
 
“The ACV is a trailblazer for amphibious warfare, designed to have significant growth potential and the flexibility to meet mission roles of military forces around the world,” said Rebecca McGrane, vice president of Amphibious Programs, BAE Systems. “The eight by eight platform is a unique mix of true open-ocean amphibious capability and land mobility in the most challenging terrain and we are confident we can enhance operational effectiveness for our allies.”
 
BAE Systems leveraged its expertise and long-standing partnership with the US Marine Corps to design and deliver the ACV to meet the unique requirements of modern expeditionary warfare. Born out of a combination of BAE Systems’ amphibious legacy and Iveco Defence Vehicle’s extensive history producing multipurpose armoured vehicles, this unique platform offers unparalleled flexibility and capability.
 
With the ability to integrate future technologies and accommodate a wide array of direct and indirect fire weapon systems, the ACV family of vehicles has four variants:

• The ACV-P (personnel) is exceptionally mobile and can transport 13 combat-loaded Marines, plus three crew.
• The ACV-C (command) provides multiple workstations to maintain and manage situational awareness in the battle space.
• The ACV-30mm mounts a stabilised, medium calibre weapon system to provide the lethality and protection needed while leaving ample room for troop capacity and payload.
• The ACV-R (recovery) provides field maintenance, recovery and repair capabilities to vehicles operating throughout the battle space.

The ACV can also contribute to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness by providing deployable assets capable of navigating flood zones and other challenging environmental conditions to deliver supplies and personnel to affected areas.