JGSDF TYPE 75 155MM SELF-PROPELLED HOWITZER - JAPAN 2000

Description

The Type 75 155 mm self-propelled howitzer (nana-go-shiki-jisou-155mm-ryuudan-hou) is an armored artillery vehicle in the exclusive use of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. Self-propelled howitzers are employed to provide mobile heavy fire support to army units in the field. The Type 75 shares a number of automotive components with the Type 74 tank which was developed during the same time. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries developed the chassis, while the howitzer and turret were designed by Japan Steel Works. Two prototypes were completed in 1971–72 and differed only in their loading systems. Trials were conducted 1973–74 and the howitzer was accepted for service in October 1975. It carries 28 rounds of ammunition on board. As of 2001 Japan reported to the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs that 201 Type 75s were in service. It is being gradually replaced by the Type 99 155 mm Self-propelled howitzer. As of December 2008 it still equips the 5th, 11th, 171st and 172nd Field Artillery Battalions (Scale : 1/35e)