Japan to deploy armored vehicles to Okinawa islands

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force is set to begin deploying armored vehicles to Okinawa Prefecture as part of a restructuring plan to upgrade the 15th Brigade to a division by March 2027.

Armored Vehicle Mobility (AMV) units will be stationed at the Ishigaki, Miyako, and Naha garrisons. Additionally, the 16th Type Mobile Combat Vehicle (MCV), a high-mobility combat vehicle equipped with a 105mm cannon, is scheduled to be delivered to the Naha Garrison this month. These vehicles are designed for rapid deployment to remote islands via aircraft or ships to counter potential amphibious incursions.

The reorganization will increase personnel in the 15th Division from approximately 2,300 to 3,900. New specialized units will also be established, including an electronic warfare unit at Ishigaki and an anti-air electronic warfare unit at Yonaguni.

Local officials, including Naha Mayor Chinen, have expressed concerns regarding the impact of vehicle movements on daily civilian life and have called for detailed explanations from the Ministry of Defense. There are also ongoing questions regarding the availability of local training grounds for these combat vehicles.