DSEI Japan 2019: JMU Defence Systems developing new multipurpose amphibious vehicles for JGSDF

JMU Defence Systems, a subsidiary of Japan Marine United (JMU) Corporation, revealed at the 18–20 November DSEI Japan 2019 defence exhibition in Chiba that it is developing two types of multipurpose amphibious vehicles for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).

A CGI showing JMU Defense Systems' 4×4 and 6×6 multipurpose amphibious vehicles. (JMU Defense Systems)

A company official told Jane’s that the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MoD) awarded the firm a contract in 2018 for the preliminary design of an 11.8 m-long and 2.8 m-wide 4×4 amphibious minelayer to replace the service’s Type 94 amphibious minelaying system.

Prototype production of the new system is expected to start in 2021, with the vehicle set to be handed over for testing to the JGSDF in 2023. After successful completion of the trial phase, a contract is expected to be signed in 2025, with the first platforms set to be delivered in 2026.

The 4×4 vehicle, which can also be modified to serve as a transporter capable of carrying up to 30 people and six tonnes of cargo. It is expected to be capable of reaching speeds of 50 km/h on land and 6 kt at sea. It can also operate in Sea State 4 conditions, making it suitable for use as a rescue platform, said the official.

The second platform under development is a 6×6 vehicle being proposed to the JGSDF for amphibious logistics operations. The company completed a prototype 11 years ago and is offering the vehicle, which also has a payload of six tonnes, for testing by the JGSDF’s Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, which operates the AAV7A1 amphibious assault vehicle.