In Japan, soldiers were killed in a fire in a Type 10 tank during training exercises
A fatal incident occurred during military exercises by the Japan Self-Defense Forces involving a Type 10 tank—a shell exploded inside the vehicle, killing three service members. Another crew member sustained serious injuries.
This was reported by the Kyodo News Agency.
The tragedy occurred on April 21 at the Hijudai training ground in Oita Prefecture in the south of the country. According to preliminary data, the explosion occurred immediately before the tank fired. All three soldiers killed died at the scene, while the injured soldier is conscious and has been hospitalized with severe burns.
The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation, and the extent of damage to the combat vehicle has not been specified.
Japan’s Minister of Defense announced the launch of a thorough investigation into the incident and pledged to strengthen oversight of safety protocols during training exercises. The country’s Prime Minister expressed condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers.
The Type 10 is the Japan Self-Defense Forces’ new-generation main battle tank, which has been in service since 2010. It was developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries with the unique features of Japan’s terrain and infrastructure in mind.
The tank weighs about 44 tons and is equipped with a 120-mm automatic-loading gun and modern composite armor. Thanks to an engine with a power output of about 1,200 horsepower, it can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h. The vehicle also features a hydro-pneumatic suspension system that allows the hull angle to be adjusted to improve firing accuracy and maneuverability.
This is not the first fatal incident in the Japanese Self-Defense Forces in recent years—previous incidents have included military aviation accidents and helicopter collisions.
As a reminder, the French Armed Forces will launch the large-scale “Orion 26” military exercises, which will last nearly three months and involve military personnel from 24 countries.
Earlier, the administration of French President Emmanuel Macron proposed holding military exercises in Greenland amid the escalating situation surrounding the island.
