Type 89

122-mm self-propelled howitzer



The Type 89 self-propelled howitzer is currently in service with Chinese Army and Marines
Entered service 1989
Crew 5 men
Dimensions and weight
Weight 20 t
Length ~ 6.5 m
Width 3.4 m
Height 2 m
Armament
Main gun 122-mm howitzer
Barrel length 32 calibers
Machine guns 1 x 12.7-mm
Projectile weight ?
Maximum firing range 18 - 21 km
Maximum rate of fire 6 - 8 rpm
Elevation range ?
Traverse range 360 degrees
Ammunition load
Main gun 40 rounds
Machine guns ?
Mobility
Engine 12V150L12 diesel
Engine power 450 hp
Maximum road speed 60 km/h
Range 500 km
Maneuverability
Gradient 60%
Side slope 30%
Vertical step ~ 0.8 m
Trench ~ 2.5 m
Fording ~ 1 m
Fording (with preparation) Amphibious

Since the late 1970s a number of 122-mm self-propelled howitzers were developed in China to meet Chinese Army requirements. The PLA required mobile artillery system to provide medium- to long-range indirect fire support for motorized infantry and armored troops and capable of keeping pace with them. However none of them could meet these requirements. The Type 89, also known as the PLZ89, self-propelled howitzer was developed in late 1980s. It was Chinese attempt to develop indigenous SPH with similar capabilities to the Soviet 2S1 Gvosdika. The Type 89 is currently in service with Chinese Army and Marines. Several hundred of these artillery systems were built.

The Type 89 SPH is armed with a 122-mm / L32 howitzer. It is a variant of the towed Type 86 (W-86), which in turn is a copy of the Soviet D-30 towed howitzer. The Type 89 is fitted with a semi-automatic loader. This artillery system is compatible with Chinese and Russian 122-mm ammunition. Maximum range of fire is 18 km using standard HE projectile and 21 km with extended-range projectiles. Vehicle is fitted with a computerized fire control system.

Secondary armament consists of a roof-mounted 12.7-mm machine gun.

Armor of the Type 89 provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. Vehicle is fitted with an NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems.

The Type 89 uses a tracked chassis, developed from the Type 77 amphibious armored personnel carrier. Vehicle is powered by the 12V150L12 diesel engine, developing 450 hp. The Type 89 can be fitted with floatation kit for amphibious operation.