MHI secures contract to build prototypes of three new Type-16 variants

The Japan Ministry of Defense’s (MoD’s) Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) has awarded Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) a contract to build prototypes of three new variants of the Type-16 Maneuver/Mobile Combat Vehicle (MCV) operated by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).

Under the JPY2.35 billion (USD21.5 million) contract MHI will build one prototype each of a new infantry combat vehicle (ICV), a reconnaissance combat vehicle (RCV), and a manoeuvre mortar combat vehicle (MMCV) based on the 8×8 MCV, which is also produced by MHI.

Documents obtained by Janes show that the contract was signed on 20 December 2019, with delivery of the prototypes to the JGSDF expected to be completed by March 2022.

A JGSDF spokesperson told Janes on 5 June that Tokyo aims to develop a family of Type-16-based vehicles under a project called “Common Tactical Wheeled Vehicles”, meaning that the new 8×8 vehicles will have similar dimensions and components, although the new variants are expected to weigh less than the 26 tonnes of the MCV.

Very few details have emerged about the new variants, but Janes understands that the MMCV will be capable of firing 120 mm mortar rounds, while the ICV variant will be equipped with a battle management system that will enable it to work closely with the MCV.

Meanwhile, the ATLA and JGSDF confirmed they are still in the process of selecting a new wheeled armoured vehicle to replace the JGSDF’s ageing fleet of Komatsu Type 96 8×8 armoured personnel carriers (APCs).