Japan has successfully completed the transfer of a new fleet of Toyota High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs) to Kyiv as part of an extensive support initiative aimed at bolstering the mobility and logistics capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in light of the ongoing Russian invasion. This development was confirmed by the Japanese Embassy in Ukraine, which stated that the Japanese Ministry of Defense and Self-Defense Forces have collectively supplied a total of 30 vehicles.
The most recent shipment included a final batch of 14 HMVs, which arrived in Poland on January 12, concomitant with two containers of medical supplies destined for Ukraine. This delivery completes the current supply of HMVs to the Ukrainian forces.
The Toyota HMV, recognized as the Mega Cruiser, is a four-wheel-drive tactical truck introduced by Japan in the 1990s, designed to replace outdated jeeps and light trucks used in the military. This vehicle is comparable in function to the US-manufactured Humvee and its commercial counterpart, the Hummer H1. Structured for a variety of roles such as infantry transport, logistics, emergency rescue, training, and fire support, the Mega Cruiser is adept at navigating underdeveloped roads.
In terms of specifications, the HMV measures 5 meters (approximately 16 feet) in length, boasts a payload capacity of 600 kilograms (1,323 pounds), and can accommodate up to 10 fully equipped troops. Its turbocharged diesel engine generates over 150 horsepower, allowing it to achieve speeds of up to 81 kilometers (50 miles) per hour.
The latest transfer marks a continuation of Japan’s commitment to offering non-lethal military equipment to Ukraine, as dictated by its export policies. This follows a series of donations, including more than 20 light trucks delivered in October 2025, building on earlier contributions of 100 vehicles in June 2024 and six in February 2025. In addition, it’s noted that Ukraine received other unspecified vehicle types in January 2025, forming part of Japan’s overarching pledge of up to 100 vehicles made in 2023.
Moreover, the Japanese defense agency announced in December 2025 a plan to expedite approximately 470 billion yen (equivalent to $2.9 billion) in new financial aid to Ukraine. This funding will be reallocated to the first half of 2026 to assist in addressing anticipated budgetary shortfalls, reinforcing Japan’s sustained support for Ukraine amid the conflict.
