Japan orders first batch of UH-X helicopters

The Subaru-Bell UH-X for the JGSDF. Photo c/o Subaru Corp.

The Japanese Ministry of Defense (MOD) Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) has  awarded a JPY14.3 billion (US$131.6 million) contract to Subaru Corporation to supply and deliver six (6) new UH-X multirole helicopters for the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF).

According to Jane’s, the contract was signed on 19 March 2020, with the delivery expected to start by 2022 and be completed by January 2023.

The Subaru UH-X is based on the new Subaru - Bell Helicopter’s 412EPX commercial helicopter model, with modifications made to suite JGSDF requirements and specifications. 

The Subaru UH-X is bound to replace the JGSDF’s ageing fleet of Bell UH-1J Huey helicopters, which were also license-produced by Fuji Heavy Industries (Subaru Corp.’s predecessor).  The JGSDF currently operates more than 120 UH-1J helicopters.

Previous announcements by the Japanese MOD suggests the requirement for around 150 new UH-Xs to be procured over the next two decades. The helicopters will be used for a variety of missions including troop transport, search and rescue, disaster relief.  


[1] Jane’s
[2] Army Technology