Japan has made significant strides in modernizing its military capabilities with the introduction of its first mass-produced Armored Modular Vehicle (AMV), aimed at replacing the aging Type-96 personnel carriers used by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). The vehicle’s unveiling took place during a ceremonial event attended by JGSDF Chief of Staff Gen. Masayoshi Arai at the Muroran Plant of Japan Steel Works, where the next-generation wheeled armored personnel carrier is produced under license from the Finnish company Patria.
The rollout of the AMV marks a pivotal moment for the JGSDF, which plans to integrate this vehicle into its operations. The first unit is expected to be delivered within the current fiscal year. According to the JGSDF, the AMV promises “exceptional mobility and protective capabilities,” facilitating the secure transport of personnel even in threatening environments. The vehicle is also anticipated to serve in various roles during international peacekeeping missions.
Following a selection process in 2022, the JGSDF chose the Patria AMV XP 8×8 armored vehicle, solidifying a licensing agreement for domestic production between Japan Steel Works and Patria earlier this year. Initially, the first vehicle in the fleet will be assembled in Finland, with plans for local production to commence in Japan by September 2025.
The specifications of the Patria AMV XP 8×8 are impressive. With a length of 8.1 meters (26.6 feet), a height of 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) over the hull, and a width of 2.8 meters (9.2 feet), it is designed for tactical versatility. The vehicle boasts a maximum payload capacity of 15,000 kilograms (33,000 pounds) while maintaining a combat weight of 32,000 kilograms (70,500 pounds). In terms of performance, the AMV XP can reach speeds exceeding 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and has an operational range of 800 to 1,000 kilometers (497 to 621 miles).
For enhanced survivability, the AMV platform features a modular protection suite that defends against a range of threats, including ballistic attacks, mines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). This advanced protection system underscores Japan’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its troops in increasingly complex operational environments.
