What about a Type 90 w/ 135mm cannon? I’ve heard that the Type 90 was initially designed to support a 135mm, and since cannon prototypes were constructed, wouldn’t that count as a partial prototype?
Even when including other Asian nations, I believe this would probably be Japan’s only opportunity for a large-calibre MBT comparable to the M1 CATTB, Object 292, Leopard 2-140, etc.
After re-reading the well-written Type 90 prototype suggestions by Tasty on the old forums, I think you are correct.
I don’t remember where I read about it being able to fit in the Type 90, but perhaps it is just a mix-up referring to the downsized 120mm version found in the second prototype.
A bit of late news, but Japan is trialing mothballing of some of their retired equipment such as the Type 74. A trial has been set for next year, and if results are promising, may continue on a larger scale.
Vehicles include the Type 74, Type 90, and (supposedly M270) MLRSs.
