Japan has recently dispatched another round of military vehicles to Ukraine, contributing 30 additional units as part of its ongoing support program for Ukraine’s defense against the Russian invasion. This latest shipment includes 28 light trucks and two high-mobility vehicles, following previous deliveries of 101 vehicles in June 2024 and six in February 2025.
In January 2024, Kyiv also received a separate batch of military aid consisting of unnamed vehicles, which may fall under Tokyo’s commitment of supplying up to 100 vehicles announced in 2023.
Japan’s military assistance continues to focus on non-lethal aid, adhering to its pacifist constitution that restricts the export of weapons and combat capabilities. Reports from local Ukrainian sources indicate that the newly delivered vehicles are intended to enhance the mobility of Kyiv’s forces, facilitating troop and supply transport across challenging terrains and during prolonged operations.
In addition to the vehicles, Japan has provided helmets, body armor, gas masks, and surveillance drones, as well as participating in international coalitions aimed at demining and personnel training in Ukraine. Tokyo’s commitment extends beyond military aid; it has pledged 8.8 billion yen (approximately $58.2 million) to assist in the reconstruction of Ukrainian infrastructure, a grant agreement introduced earlier this year by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
Moreover, Japan is strengthening its ties with NATO partners and has shown interest in joining the alliance’s coordination mission for Ukraine based in Germany. During discussions in April, Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani addressed these plans with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. In a decisive stance against Moscow’s actions, Japan announced in September its intention to close all six branches of the Japan Center for Trade and Economic Development in Russia, further highlighting its opposition to the ongoing invasion.
