Explosion in tank during exercise in Japan: 3 soldiers killed

Explosion in tank during exercise in Japan: 3 soldiers killed

21.04.2026 21:26

In Japan, during a drill, an explosion inside a Type 10 tank resulted in the loss of 3 soldiers' lives and left 1 soldier injured. Following the incident, all firing drills involving Type 10 and Type 90 tanks, which use the same ammunition, have been suspended across the country.

An explosion occurred in a tank during a live-fire exercise with Type 10 tanks at the Hijudai Training Area in Oita city, southern Japan.

3 DEAD, 1 INJURED

In a statement from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, it was stated that the tank shell exploded before being fired, resulting in the deaths of 3 soldiers, and it was reported that the soldier injured in the explosion suffered burns on his face.

ALL FIRING EXERCISES SUSPENDED

Japan's Chief of Staff, Masayoshi Arai, announced that an investigation has been launched following the accident and that firing exercises using Type 10 and Type 90 tanks, which use the same ammunition, have been suspended. Arai said, "We will identify the cause of the accident as soon as possible to take preventive measures."

The Type 10 is known as Japan's fourth-generation tank model, which began to be put into service in 2011. 

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