The recent “Fuji 2025 Firepower Exercise” allowed the general public and specialized media to get a close look at part of the inventory currently in service, as well as new systems introduced by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). While much attention was focused on the unveiling of the new Type 12 anti-ship missile system, the presence of new reconnaissance and surveillance variants, along with the mortar carrier version based on the 8×8 Type 16 MCV platform, also stood out. These are currently under development and testing for future induction.
At present, the Ministry of Defense and the Ground Self-Defense Force are carrying out a significant modernization program for their fleet of wheeled armored combat vehicles. One of these initiatives aims to replace the current Komatsu Type 96 vehicles through domestic production of the new Patria AMVXP 8×8 IFV.
The other program, however, focuses on the development of specialized platforms and aims to create a family of wheeled armored vehicles based on the Type 16 Maneuver Combat Vehicle (MCV) 8×8. Primarily designed for engaging other armored vehicles, the Type 16 MCV has been in service since the 2010s.
To this end, and as previously reported in 2024, three variants based on the Type 16 platform are currently in development, intended to fulfill roles as an Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), mortar carrier, and reconnaissance/surveillance vehicle. The latter two were officially unveiled during the recently concluded “Fuji 2025 Firepower Exercise.”
The program, launched in 2019, includes an initial investment of up to US$250 million for the development of these three variants based on the Type 16.
Although limited technical details were provided, the mortar carrier has received the official designation of Type 24 and is equipped with a 120mm mortar. The 8×8 reconnaissance and surveillance vehicle has been designated as Type 25.
Finally, the notable absence from the demonstration was the infantry fighting vehicle version, which will complete the JGSDF’s development program of specialized platforms based on the Type 16 MCV.
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