The Japanese Type 74 105mm Self Propelled Gun

The Japanese Type 74 105mm Self Propelled Gun

The Japanese Type 74 105mm Self Propelled Gun artillery was the first developed for the Japanese Ground Self Defence Forces.  Komatsu developed the chassis, while the howitzer and turret were designed by Japan Steel Works. The first prototypes were completed in 1969-70. The howitzer was accepted for service in 1974, with 20 built. 17 are still in service.

It carries 30 rounds onboard. It is amphibious when using the erectable flotation screen of the upper hull. It is equipped with an NBC filtration system.

The Japanese Type 74 105mm Self Propelled Gun Specifications

Weight 16,500 kilograms
Length 5.8 metres (19 ft)
Width 2.9 metres (9.5 ft)
Height 2.39 metres (7.8 ft)
Crew 4
Shell separate-loading
Calibre 105 millimetres (4.1 in)
Traverse 360°
Muzzle velocity 645 m/s
Maximum range 14,500 metres (15,900 yd)
Armour aluminium
Primary
armament 1x 105 mm JSW howitzer
Secondary
armament 1x 12.7 mm M-2HB machine gun
Engine Mitsubishi 4ZF 4-cylinder diesel
300 bhp
Power/weight 18.4 hp/t
Transmission manual
Suspension torsion bar
Ground clearance 40 centimetres (16 in)
Fuel capacity 410 litres (110 US gal)
Operational
range 300 km (185 mi)
Speed 50 kilometres per hour (31 mph)