The Type 87 SPAAG (self-propelled anti-aircraft gun) is a Japanese air defense weapon built around the Oerlikon 35 mm twin cannon system used on the Gepard tank. The system uses a modified Type 74 tank chassis.

HISTORY

As the JSDF began to seek a replacement for the M42 Duster SPAAGs provided by the United States, the Japanese Defense Agency began to issue requirements for the production of a local SPAAG unit to replace the M42. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries had been eventually awarded the contract to produce a SPAAG unit to replace its old M42s.

DEVELOPMENT


It had been developed in 1987, given the Type 87 designation status, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries providing the chassis and Japan Steel Works providing the cannon system. Initially, the chassis of the Type 61 tank would be used. Later, it had been rejected and had the chassis of the Type 74 tank used instead as a basis for producing the Type 87 SPAAG.

Prior to its development, tests had begun underway in 1982 with a prototype SPAAG unit manufactured in 1983.

STATUS

In 1997, it was reported that the Japan Self-Defense Forces had 41 of these vehicles in service.

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