Type 77 / Type 85

In the mid-1970s, China initiated the development of a lightweight machine gun to replace the indigenous Type 54 for mobile anti-aircraft applications. Norinco manufactured the weapon, which was adopted in 1977, with mass production beginning in 1980.

The weapon utilizes a hybrid short-recoil and direct gas impingement operating system. This configuration results in few moving parts and a long, slim, tubular receiver. It retains the locking system and belt feed mechanism of the Type 54. The barrel is thin to reduce weight, which increases the rate of overheating, and features a pepperpot muzzle brake. Sighting systems consist of iron sights and a mount for a low-magnification optical sight designed for ground and aerial targets. Ergonomic features include a shoulder stock, a large charging handle located below the receiver, and an open-bolt firing mechanism.

Five years after the Type 77 entered service, production transitioned to the updated Type 85, also designated as the QJG-85. This variant incorporates a conventional muzzle brake, horizontal grips, and a sliding trigger unit used for cocking, replacing the spade grips and separate cocking handle of the original design. Both variants can be mounted on vehicles. The weapon has been deployed in conflicts including the Syrian Civil War, the Mali War, the M23 rebellion, the Tigray War, and the War in Sudan. National forces and security agencies in countries such as Iraq—where it is integrated onto the Alrobot unmanned ground vehicle—Rwanda, South Sudan, Niger, Sudan, and Yemen have operated the weapon. It has also been utilized by various non-state actors, including the Free Syrian Army, the Islamic State, and the Tigray Defense Forces.