Essex Police were alerted to the car at around 8.15pm on Monday (November 3).
Specialist roads policing officers boxed the car in and brought it to a safe stop on the A12 near Brentwood.
The driver initially refused to follow instructions to turn off the engine, and officers suspected he may attempt to flee the scene.
As a result, entry into the vehicle was forced to prevent any risk to the public.
A search of the driver and the vehicle uncovered suspected Class A drugs, a knuckle-duster, a knife, and a small quantity of cannabis.
The man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, drug offences, and drug driving.
He remains in custody for questioning.
Chief inspector Ella Latham said: “This incident highlights the skill and professionalism of our roads policing officers, who acted swiftly and decisively to bring this situation to a safe conclusion.
“Despite the busy road and the number of vehicles nearby, they were able to stop the vehicle without incident and ensure a suspect was arrested.”
