The Patria AMV XP 8×8 is a modular and durable armoured wheeled vehicle designed for enhanced firepower, protection, and mobility. Credit: Patria Group.

Japan Steel Works (JSW) has delivered the first Patria AMV XP 8×8 armoured vehicle to the Japan Self-Ground Defense Forces (JGSDF) as part of the country’s Wheeled Armorer Personnel Carrier (WAPC) programme.

The hand-over ceremony took place on 2 September 2025, at JSW’s facility in Muroran, Hokkaido, Japan.

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The Japanese Ministry of Defence selected the Patria AMV XP for its WAPC programme in December 2022.

In August 2023, Patria entered into a contract for the local WAPC programme, and has since collaborated with JSW, including the transfer of technology to Japan.

Patria protected mobility executive vice president Jussi Järvinen said: “Japan has become already the ninth user nation of Patria AMV vehicles and joined the international AMV community. This significant milestone demonstrates true and close cooperation between Patria, Japan Self-Ground Defense Forces, and Japan Steel Works, with successful results.

“Discussions are ongoing with the Japan Self-Defense Forces and local industry regarding new opportunities, and Patria is very committed to a long-term strategic cooperation with Japan.”

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The Patria AMV XP 8×8 is designed as a modular armoured wheeled vehicle intended to enhance firepower, protection, and mobility for JGSDF operations.

This new platform is set to replace the existing Type-96 8×8 Armoured Personnel Carrier currently in service.

Patria’s AMV family has been deployed in various military operations worldwide.

The company emphasises a business model that incorporates technology transfer and local manufacturing, which has been implemented successfully in other countries such as Poland, Croatia, and South Africa.

Currently, the company is also involved in technology transfer efforts related to the Slovakian AMV 8×8 programme.

Patria market area world vice president Janne Räkköläinen said: “We are confident that Japanese soldiers will be extremely satisfied with the latest generation performance, after the deployment of first armoured vehicles.”

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