Tokyo, Japan – Web Desk: At least three soldiers were killed and one seriously injured after a shell exploded inside a tank during a live-fire military exercise in southern Japan, officials said.
The incident occurred at the Hijudai training area in Oita Prefecture, where multiple tanks were participating in a scheduled drill. According to initial reports, the explosion took place inside the gun turret of a Type 10 main battle tank.
The tank commander, gunner, and a safety officer present inside the turret were killed instantly, while a fourth crew member, the driver, sustained critical injuries.
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Chief of Staff, General Masayoshi Arai, confirmed the incident and announced the immediate suspension of live-fire exercises involving both Type 10 and Type 90 tanks pending a full investigation. Authorities noted that both tank models use similar ammunition, raising concerns over potential technical issues.
The Type 10 tank, Japan’s most advanced main battle tank, has been in service since 2011 and is a key component of the country’s modern defense capabilities.
An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the explosion, with safety protocols and equipment expected to come under close review.
