Tokyo (Agencies): Japan has continued the deployment of its 5.56×45 mm Type 20 assault rifle, with a recent delivery to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) Hyakuri Air Base in Ibaraki Prefecture.
A spokesperson from Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) confirmed that an undisclosed number of Type 20 rifles were delivered to the base in 2024, though the JASDF has yet to begin using them operationally. “We are currently making arrangements so that the rifles will become operational as soon as can be,” the spokesperson stated.
The Ministry of Defense (MoD) has allocated JPY3.3 billion (USD22.8 million) in its fiscal year (FY) 2023 budget to procure 8,577 Type 20 rifles, with additional funding of JPY4.3 billion for 9,927 rifles in FY 2024 and JPY5.4 billion for 12,907 rifles in FY 2025.
The Type 20 assault rifle, developed by Howa Machinery Limited, was introduced in 2015 to replace the aging Type 89 rifles, which had been in service since the 1980s. In 2019, the MoD selected the Type 20 over competing models, including Heckler & Koch’s 416A5 and FN Herstal’s SCAR-L.
The rifle features a selective-fire mechanism, allowing for automatic or semi-automatic fire, and is equipped with enhanced durability, modular adaptability, and improved ergonomics. It incorporates a short-stroke gas-piston system, a rotating bolt design, and compatibility with STANAG magazines, ensuring interoperability with allied forces.
The Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) have been gradually integrating the Type 20 rifle across multiple branches, including the Ground and Air Self-Defense Forces. The weapon is expected to play a critical role in Japan’s defense strategy, particularly in amphibious operations and island defense scenarios.
With continued investment in modernizing its infantry equipment, Japan aims to enhance its combat readiness and operational effectiveness in response to evolving security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.