JGSDF Type 87 SPAAG (Guntank)

Development of Type 87 began in the mid 1970’s when the Japanese Defense Agency issued a specification for a new type of a Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun that could replace the aging M24 Dusters. After 2 major design changes in 1982 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries together with Japan Steel Works delivered a fully functional radar guided SPAAG that was build based on Type 74 MBT chassis (modified from Type 61 MBT) and twin 35 mm Oerlikon cannons (modified from M51 Skysweaper). Until today at least 52 Type 87 vehicles are in service with JGSDF.