The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) has initiated trials of two European-made unmanned ground vehicles — Rheinmetall’s Mission Master SP and Milrem Robotics’ THeMIS — to assess their suitability for multiple mission roles. This effort aligns with Tokyo’s growing focus on automation to counter manpower shortages and bolster operational efficiency amid regional military modernization by neighboring states such as China. According to Japan’s arms procurement agency, the program promotes automation, labor savings, and operational optimization through unmanned technologies. The JGSDF procured three units each of the Mission Master SP and THeMIS in 2024 for comprehensive evaluation. The Mission Master SP, powered by an electric drive, features a low-signature, amphibious design configurable for cargo transport, surveillance, or armed reconnaissance using modular payloads. It achieves speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour on land and 6 kilometers per hour in water while carrying loads of up to 1,000 kilograms. The THeMIS, a tracked vehicle capable of operating for eight hours with a payload capacity of up to 1,200 kilograms, can be fitted with machine guns or anti-tank guided missiles. These attributes make it suitable for both combat support and logistics operations. Japan’s exploration of UGVs reflects an effort to sustain combat readiness with fewer personnel while mitigating battlefield risk. If successful, these systems could form the foundation of a new generation of autonomous ground platforms integrated into Japan’s defense ecosystem, emphasizing versatility and force protection.
