Type 16 MCV

The Type 16 maneuver combat vehicle (MCV) originated from the 2003 Future Combat Vehicle program, which explored a universal wheeled chassis for multiple weapon systems. After that program was canceled due to costs, the Light Combat Vehicle (LCV) program served as a technology demonstrator for features such as IED resistance, hydro-pneumatic suspension, and air transportability. While the LCV explored 6x6 configurations, the development moved to an 8x8 design for the MCV. Development was conducted by the Technical Research & Development Institute (TRDI) of the Japan Ministry of Defense, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as the manufacturer. Prototypes were produced starting in 2008, and the vehicle was officially named the maneuver combat vehicle in 2011. It entered service with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) following acceptance tests conducted between 2014 and 2015.

The vehicle features an 8x8 wheeled configuration designed for operation on narrow roads and in built-up areas. The primary armament is a 105 mm L/52 rifled gun developed by Japan Steel Works, which is manually loaded. Secondary armament includes a 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, a 7.62 mm Sumitomo Type 74 coaxial machine gun, a Type 96 40 mm automatic grenade launcher, or an FN Minimi 5.56 mm light machine gun. Protection levels include frontal shielding designed to resist 20 mm to 30 mm autocannon rounds and side armor capable of resisting 14.5 mm heavy machine gun fire. An optional undercarriage plate is available for resistance against IEDs and anti-tank mines. The vehicle is designed for air transport via Kawasaki C-2 aircraft.

The Type 16 MCV is operated by Japan. It is deployed within rapid reaction forces, including the 8th Division and 14th Brigade, as well as several reconnaissance combat battalions and rapid deployment regiments across the Northern, North Eastern, Eastern, Central, and Western Armies. Its procurement represents a strategic shift from defending against northern invasions to the defense of the southern island chain. The vehicle is intended for rapid deployment to outlying islands and use in counter-insurgency operations against asymmetrical attacks in urban areas. Hundreds of units have been ordered for JGSDF service.

Variants developed from the Type 16 chassis under the Common Tactical Wheeled Vehicle program include the Type 24 Wheeled Armoured Combat Vehicle, which is equipped with a 30 mm autocannon, and the Type 24 Wheeled 120mm Mobile Mortar. A reconnaissance combat variant featuring a 30 mm cannon and retractable surveillance sensors is also in development.