Type 90 image - Tank Lovers Group

First prototype of the Type 90 main battle tank was built in 1982. It was intended to replace the Type 61 medium tanks in service with Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces. The Type 90 was developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in cooperation with German Krauss-Maffei and MaK tank manufacturers. Consequently the Type 90 has a number of external similarities with German Leopard 2. This main battle tank was officially adopted by the JGSDF in 1989 and the initial deliveries commenced in 1990. A full-scale production began in 1992. The Type 90 is currently among the best MBTs in the world. Furthermore for a period of time it was the most expensive production MBT.

The Type 90 is protected by composite armor with superior resistance qualities. Half of the ammunition is stored in the turret bustle with blow-out panels.

Vehicle is armed with German Rheinmetall Rh-M-120 120-mm smoothbore gun, which was built in Japan under license. This gun is fitted with an autoloader and fires all standard NATO 120-mm projectiles. Autoloader holds 20 rounds, stored in the turret bustle, while the rest of ammunition is stored in front of the hull. It is worth mentioning that the gun has to be depressed to 0 degrees to be loaded after each shot