Japan plans a successor to its LAV
The current state of play in Japan’s defence industry means that Tokyo might have to look overseas for its next LAV 4x4.
As Tokyo looks for a replacement of its Light Armoured Vehicles (LAV), the ability of its domestic industry to develop a suitable alternative looks to be in doubt.
Japanese company Komatsu produced 1,937 LAVs from 2001-16, and they are used by both the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).
Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) has been considering a LAV replacement for several years.
The LAV’s lack of interior space and self-protection are its known weaknesses, plus the vehicle will require a new engine to meet future tightening of exhaust regulations.
ATLA entrusted the Mitsubishi
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Billion-dollar Belgium deal for NASAMS creates multinational air defence system]()
Billion-dollar Belgium deal for NASAMS creates multinational air defence system
The National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) is in service on five continents with more than 100 platforms delivered. The system will now form part of Belgium’s Blue Dome air defence system alongside new orders for Skyranger air defence and Thales radar systems.
-
![Clearer military requirements could unlock UGV market growth]()
Clearer military requirements could unlock UGV market growth
Western armies continue to test uncrewed ground vehicles, but wider procurement will depend on turning ambitions for autonomy into defined operational roles and funded requirements.
-
![Can NATO’s CUAS marketplace turn urgent demand into deliveries?]()
Can NATO’s CUAS marketplace turn urgent demand into deliveries?
Framework contracts and leasing options aim to shorten acquisition timelines, while manufacturing partnerships could help suppliers scale production to meet allied demand.
-
![A medium UGV market emerges as the US weighs up its options]()
A medium UGV market emerges as the US weighs up its options
The US is pursuing multiple UGV programmes, from commercial robotic platforms to new autonomy technologies. The combination of these efforts could prove key to turning ambition into operational capability.
-
![NATO looks for answers to overcome standards hurdles and improve procurement]()
NATO looks for answers to overcome standards hurdles and improve procurement
NATO is looking to artificial intelligence to provide integration between different C2 systems to create a common operational picture, potentially offering a faster route to interoperability than the slow-moving processes of NATO standards committees.
