Japan Transfers Unknown Number of HMMWV-Style Vehicles to Ukraine

The Embassy of Japan in Ukraine has delivered an unspecified number of Toyota HMV SUVs to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Militarnyi reports on this, having analyzed the equipment transfer.

The Japanese Ministry of Defense and the Self-Defense Forces decided in October 2025 to send vehicles of various models. The final batch arrived in Poland on January 12.

The Toyota High Mobility Vehicle (HMV) is a military SUV developed in the 1990s for the Japanese Self-Defense Forces.

It was designed to replace outdated jeeps and trucks that no longer met modern mobility and versatility requirements.

The vehicle serves as a platform for a wide range of tasks, including transporting personnel and equipment, and mounting weapons or communication systems.

The HMV has been actively used in exercises, peacekeeping missions, and internal logistics. Some demilitarized vehicles entered the civilian market, while others were resold to foreign countries.

The SUV features a 4×4 wheel configuration, providing strong off-road capability in challenging conditions. Its diesel engine, producing roughly 150-170 hp, allows speeds of 100–110 km/h on highways.

The vehicle weighs approximately 2.5-3 tons and has a carrying capacity of up to 1 ton. The standard version can transport 8-10 fully equipped personnel.

The body has a modular design, enabling installation of various superstructures, from open platforms to armored cabins. Ukraine received a lightweight version with a tarpaulin cover.

The HMV can be fitted with machine gun turrets, anti-tank missile systems, or light anti-aircraft systems.

The base version has minimal protection, but some variants feature reinforced panels and bulletproof glass.