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Type 87 Chu-MAT

1989 COLD WAR MODERN

87-style Chu-MAT story

The modern Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) relies on Type 64 MAT, Type 79 Jyu-MAT and Type 87 Chu-MAT Anti-Tank Missiles (ATGM) as man-portable long-range weapon armor against the enemy. The Type 64 was adopted in 1964 and the Type 79 appeared in 1984, which paved the way for the acceptance of the Type 87 in 1989.

Still in use on the front lines today (February 2014).

The Type 87 relies on semi-active laser guidance capabilities when aiming at the intended target. The operator manages the flight of the missile through an integrated laser designator, and the missile makes course corrections in flight.

Thus, the complete system includes missiles, launch tubes, heavy tripod support assemblies and guidance/retrieval equipment. The design of the weapon can be traced back to work carried out by the Defense Agency's Institute of Technology Research and Development, and the units were manufactured in 1987 - hence the name Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Mitsubishi Heavy Machinery's product banner.

The Type 87 was designed in the mid-1970s, and prototypes were introduced and formally tested in the early to mid-1980s. After completing the necessary trials, the system was adopted in the second half of the century as a permanent fixture in the JGSDF inventory. The Type 87 launches a 12kg rocket mounted in a tubular launcher with an effective range of up to 2,000 meters.

Propulsion is via a solid fuel system. Unlike wire-guided anti-tank missile types, wireless laser-guided products like the Type 87 offer greater accuracy, range, and responsiveness, while also being effective against current-generation armor.

The entire system is typically deployed by a crew of three and can also be further mounted on vehicles for a more mobile anti-tank support platform. Remote launch is possible, but the distance from the indicator to the launcher is limited to 200 meters.

The Type 64, Type 79 and Type 87 are all threatened by the new Shin Chu-MAT weapons program being implemented by the JGSDF. The system will be used to counter threats posed by next-generation armored protection systems, no doubt those used by China's new main battle tanks.