Japan to Build Patria AMV XP Armored Vehicles for Self-Defense Forces

Key Highlights-

Japan to begin domestic production of Patria AMV XP 8×8 armored vehicles in September 2025
AMV XP will replace Japan’s aging Type-96 APCs in the Ground Self-Defense Force
Agreement includes potential production of Patria NEMO mortar systems and other variants

Japan is ready to launch its domestic production of Finnish-made Patria AMV XP 8×8 armored personnel carriers under a licensing agreement with Finland’s Patria Group in September 2025. These vehicles are specifically made for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), and are assembled by Japan Steel Works (JSW). The supplies of components and kits are from Finland. In the final assembly phase, production is expected to start, and preparations are in progress to begin local manufacturing and supply chain.

Recently, the JSW team completed their five-month training program at Patria’s production facility in Finland, to assemble a prototype vehicle under the Patria technicians’ supervision and the vehicle has passed final inspection to test drive which is ready for shipment to Japan.

Ongoing technical support has been provided to Patria during the production ramp-up. The local sub-conductor network has been established by JSW, with the support of Patria transferring localization parts. This new AMV XP will replace the previous Japan’s Type-96 8×8 APCs.

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On January 24, 2025, the first unit was formally presented and the agreement with Patria covers the delivery of several hundred vehicles over the coming years. Additionally, to start the assembly of the vehicles, the cooperation expanded between JSW and Patria, including with potential production of Patria’s NEMO 120mm turreted mortar system and the other variants based on the AMV XP platform. There is a separate agreement that was also signed to develop life-cycle support services for the fleet in Japan.

The latest evolution of the AMV family, the Patria AMV XP offers enhanced mobility, payload, and protection. It features a modular design that supports various combat roles, with the integration of heavy weapon stations, automatic cannons, and anti-tank systems.