HORIBA MIRA-Engineered ‘Rapid Intervention Vehicle’ Unveiled at IDEX 2017

HORIBA MIRA, experts in defence vehicle design, engineering and testing, saw the debut of NIMR RIV – a purpose-built rapid intervention vehicle engineered at its headquarters in Nuneaton – at International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) in the United Arab Emirates this weekend.

HORIBA MIRA-Engineered ‘Rapid Intervention Vehicle’ Unveiled at IDEX 2017

Launched by UAE-based NIMR Automotive, a subsidiary of Emirates Defense Industries Company (EDIC), MIRA’s engineers developed RIV as an ultra high-mobility, lightweight and rapidly deployable platform that complies with international military standards. RIV was produced in response to evolving industry trends and an increase in demand for specialised vehicles with greater crossover of mission requirements and capabilities.

Created to fit a bespoke set of operational requirements, RIV is designed to carry four crew plus their equipment, and is specified for high-speed response to tactical situations in remote sites, either by fast-ground transit or helicopter insertion. Capable of operating at extended ranges in harsh desert environments, RIV also features under-body blast protection as well as modular applique armour packs for ballistic protection.

Mark Carter, Senior Manager for Defence Solutions at MIRA, said: 

“RIV addressed an important need for a high-speed, easily transportable vehicle. The vehicle’s advanced capabilities are testament to the decades of experience harnessed by MIRA’s engineers which has been crucial to the success of the project. With just twelve months to engineer the RIV, we utilised multiple MIRA engineering teams including Powertrain, Dynamics, Braking, Electrical and Ergonomics. We also extensively tested RIV on our Proving Ground and in our EMC, Dynamics and Climatic facilities.


“We’re delighted with the end result; RIV is a highly innovative design, creating an entirely bespoke chassis systems that has enabled a class-leading power-to-weight ratio and exceptional performance both on and off-road, without compromising any of the key system requirements.”

Dr Fahad Saif Harhara, CEO for NIMR said,

“We have listened carefully to the special operations community and incorporated their requirements into this light and powerful 4×4 rapid intervention vehicle. The NIMR RIV is our most modern special forces platform available.”

MIRA’s work in the defence sector spans across engineering consultancy, testing, product design and prototype build. With its combination of highly qualified and experienced staff and a unique collection of test and validation facilities, MIRA is uniquely placed to provide comprehensive defence vehicle engineering solutions.