Seeing that the light armored vehicles currently in service with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force have aged, the Japanese Ministry of Defense plans to purchase the most popular commercial pickup trucks on the market and then conduct military modifications to replace the current light armored vehicles. Japanese media reported that the Japanese Ministry of Defense plans to purchase several civilian pickup trucks in the next fiscal year, armor them, and conduct performance tests by the 2028 fiscal year. The tested pickup trucks currently selected include the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Isuzu D-MAX. The Land Cruiser is an SUV off-road vehicle, while the D-MAX is a four-door pickup truck. These vehicles will undergo testing to evaluate their durability, resistance, and overall applicability for reconnaissance and transportation missions. The budget proposal for the 2025 fiscal year of the Ministry of Defense has requested about 650 million yen for procurement and testing.
The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force currently has about 1,800 light armored vehicles, produced by Komatsu since 2002. This light armored vehicle is similar to the U.S. Army's armored Humvee, large in size, with strong protection and high power. However, the Ground Self-Defense Force has a low evaluation of this vehicle, considering its engine noise, tire vibration, and uncomfortable seats, which make long trips tiring. In addition, although the vehicle is large, its carrying capacity is poor. To transport more troops, more vehicles are needed. But the vehicle is too big, making it difficult to find suitable parking spaces. Currently, approximately 80% of the light armored vehicles have exceeded their service life and need to be replaced. The Japanese Ministry of Defense hopes to clarify whether commercial vehicles can meet combat requirements this time. If the test plan goes smoothly, the Ministry of Defense will make a final decision in 2028 and begin the replacement from 2030.
Original source: www.toutiao.com/article/1844524656594944/
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