According to a report by 'Breaking Defense', Japan Steel Works has dispatched a team of 20 personnel to Finland for a 5-month training program, which has now concluded. They are prepared to start domestic production of the AMV-XP 8×8 armored personnel carrier, authorized for production by Patria, intended to enhance the capabilities of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.

The report indicates that following their training in Finland, the team will wait for the necessary production equipment and materials to arrive before commencing assembly of the AMV-XP in Japan. Earlier in January, they successfully completed the assembly of the first AMV-XP for the JGSDF and are set to conduct testing and verification before returning the vehicle to Japan.

Patria continues to supply the required materials and equipment while actively providing technical support to ensure Japan Steel Works can begin local assembly of the AMV-XP as planned in September. In 2022, Japan announced the replacement of the current Type 96 armored personnel carrier with the AMV-XP, and Patria expects to collaborate with Japan Steel Works to deliver hundreds of AMV-XPs to the JGSDF in the coming years.

Additionally, Japan Steel Works is working to establish a domestic parts supply chain to bolster its autonomy in vehicle production and maintenance. Notably, Patria participated in the 3rd Defense & Security Equipment International Japan (DSEI Japan) held from the 21st to 23rd of this month, showcasing various products and services to expand cooperation with Japan.