Type 24 combat vehicle joins rapid reaction units

Japan recently unveiled its Type 24 combat vehicle, a high-tech addition to the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force [JGSDF], targeting the country’s evolving security needs in a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape. This new combat vehicle is part of a sweeping modernization effort supported by a record-breaking $57 billion defense budget for 2025, as Japan seeks to fortify its defensive capabilities with a focus on armored vehicles and rapid deployment regiments.

The JGSDF’s budget plan includes three new models of tactical wheeled vehicles developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, based on the versatile Type 16 maneuver combat vehicle. Among them, two versions of the Type 24 are receiving particular attention: the armored wheeled combat vehicle [AWCV] and the Mobile 120mm Mortar [MM], priced at $142 million and $54 million respectively. These vehicles, slated for deployment starting this year, represent a strategic leap forward for Japan’s self-defense forces, enhancing their ability to conduct swift, multi-terrain operations.
The rollout of the Type 24 AWCV and MM vehicles signals a new phase for Japan’s rapid response forces, which are critical in a defense strategy designed to counter potential threats quickly and decisively. The Type 24 combat vehicles are crafted for flexibility, agility, and resilience, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance both mobility and firepower in active conflict zones. This vehicle upgrade is not merely logistical; it reflects a larger strategic shift emphasizing rapid mobilization and the ability to secure remote or hostile areas effectively.
The Type 24 AWCV, engineered as an armored infantry fighting vehicle, is built to be a key asset in transporting and supporting troops during high-risk missions. Armed with an automatic cannon and equipped with armor capable of withstanding small-arms fire and mine blasts, the AWCV provides ground forces with a highly mobile, protected platform, making it invaluable for quick entry into and exit from combat zones. Designed to handle both urban and rugged landscapes, it can adapt seamlessly across various terrains, giving JGSDF a versatile tool for both urban operations and difficult-to-reach environments.
The second model, the Type 24 MM, is a mobile 120mm mortar variant designed to offer precise, mobile fire support for fast-paced offensive and defensive actions. This self-propelled mortar provides critical support with quick repositioning abilities, enabling Japanese forces to deploy or reposition firepower with minimal setup. The rapid-mobility design of the MM makes it ideal for executing swift strikes or countermeasures while minimizing the unit’s exposure to counterattacks. Its 120mm mortar is engineered for quick, efficient firing, allowing units to deploy and relocate seamlessly.
Both Type 24 variants come equipped with sophisticated battlefield communication systems, enabling real-time data sharing and seamless coordination with other units. Through integration with JGSDF’s network, these vehicles provide commanders with real-time battlefield visibility and more responsive control over operations. The AWCV and MM both benefit from advanced digital connectivity, allowing them to synchronize with artillery, air support, and ground troops—enhancing situational awareness and improving overall mission effectiveness.

The AWCV model also boasts advanced mobility through next-generation suspension and engine systems improving both adaptability and durability in challenging environments. This mobility is essential to the JGSDF’s focus on potential conflicts in Japan’s remote island regions, where logistical support can be limited. The AWCV’s rapid deployment capabilities allow it to transport troops and equipment efficiently to distant locations, making it suitable for a variety of missions, including peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance.
For the MM variant, precision targeting technology enables accurate firing even while on the move, which is crucial in missions requiring agile fire support. Utilizing advanced fire control systems, the mobile mortar processes data from external sources like drones and reconnaissance units, enhancing its effectiveness in fluid, high-stress combat scenarios. The MM’s capacity to quickly adjust and reposition gives JGSDF commanders flexibility, a critical asset in the fast-paced demands of modern combat.
Beyond direct combat, the Type 24 vehicles are outfitted with defenses against chemical, biological, and radiological threats, allowing crew members to operate safely in contaminated areas. These protective systems are indispensable on today’s battlefield, where asymmetrical threats pose a significant risk to military personnel and operational success.

The Type 24 vehicles also feature cutting-edge surveillance and targeting capabilities, including high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging sensors that enable identification of targets even in adverse weather and low-visibility conditions. Combined with night vision capabilities, the Type 24 ensures a 24/7 operational readiness—a crucial factor for rapid response forces that must remain vigilant around the clock.
One of the standout features of the Type 24 is its adaptability for transport by air, sea, or rail without compromising its protective and combat capabilities. This versatility simplifies deployment to remote or inaccessible regions where air and sea routes are often the primary means of reinforcement. This multi-modal transportability positions the Type 24 as an essential asset for the JGSDF in Japan’s island territories, ensuring that military assets can be mobilized swiftly to uphold national security.
The emphasis on mobility, efficiency, and rapid deployment underscores Japan’s broader defense strategy. As the Type 24 becomes an integral part of JGSDF’s rapid response forces, it marks a decisive step in enhancing Japan’s defense readiness, providing a new level of security in an era where swift, decisive action is more critical than ever.
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