Japan's crucial vehicle aid reinforces Ukraine's defence capabilities
Despite the considerable distance and complex export regulations, Japan has decided to deliver approximately a hundred various vehicles and much protective equipment to Ukraine. It appears that the promised Mitsubishi Type 73-II Light vehicles are already in Ukraine.
A photo of the Japanese off-road vehicle, the Mitsubishi Type 73 Light, in Ukraine has appeared online. This is part of Japan's 2023 commitment to deliver 100 vehicles. This shipment also included the recently featured Morooka PC-065B tracked carriers, which are very useful on Ukraine's backroads.
It's worth mentioning that 4x4 vehicles are always in high demand for logistics behind the lines or for moving personnel away from main roads. While Ukraine continues to make considerable use of converted civilian vehicles, vehicles specifically designed for such tasks, like the Mitsubishi Type 73 Light, are always a more suitable choice.
Mitsubishi Type 73-II Light — A versatile off-road vehicle of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces
The Mitsubishi Type 73-II Light is a military-adapted version of the Mitsubishi Pajero, produced in series since 1996. It is designed to carry about 500 kilograms of cargo. The vehicle is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine with 125 horsepower.
The vehicles were produced in both unarmoured and armoured versions, which were used, among others, during the presence of the Japanese humanitarian battalion in Iraq (Jietai Iraku Fukkou Shiengun) during the Second Gulf War. It is possible that these very units were delivered and could provide protection against small arms fire or artillery shrapnel.
Interestingly, the Mitsubishi Type 73-II Light can, if necessary, be armed with, for instance, a heavy machine gun like the Browning M2 or a machine gun from the FN Minimi family.
