Japan to Test Rheinmetall's Unmanned Ground Vehicles

Japan has awarded Rheinmetall a multimillion-dollar contract to deliver Mission Master SP Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) for testing and potential Army purchase.

Rheinmetall will deliver three Mission Master SP vehicles to Japan in January 2025. The Mission Master SP will be the first autonomous vehicle to be tested by the Japanese army.

The contract will be executed in partnership with Marubeni Aerospace, a Japanese business conglomerate that will be trained by Rheinmetall to offer local support to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. These compact, low-signature electric UGVs will each be equipped with different payload modules, including cargo, surveillance, and a remote-controlled weapon station.

The contract also includes a long-term support and training program, as well as spare parts.