Type 10

The Type 10 is a Japanese fourth-generation main battle tank manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force. Developed under the TK-X project beginning in the 1990s, the vehicle was designed to complement and eventually replace the Type 74 and Type 90. A prototype was revealed in 2008 at the Technology Research and Development Institute in Sagamihara, and the Ministry of Defense formally acknowledged the platform in 2009. Production began in 2010, and the vehicle entered service in 2012. The project was initiated after a Ministry of Defense assessment determined that existing Japanese tanks lacked the internal space required for C4I upgrades.

The tank utilizes the 10NW C4I system, which integrates into the Field Communication System and the Regiment Command Control System. This system enables real-time data sharing, automatic target synchronization, and platoon-level target recognition. Protection is provided by modular ceramic composite armor. The use of removable modules allows the protection level to be adjusted based on mission requirements. The armor is designed to counter 120mm kinetic energy penetrators along the front of the hull and turret, while the top armor provides protection against explosively formed penetrators. The vehicle was designed with a lower mass than the Type 90 to ensure compatibility with a higher percentage of Japanese bridge and road infrastructure.

Firepower is centered on a 120mm smoothbore gun developed by Japan Steel Works. This weapon is equipped with an autoloader that enables a firing interval of 3.5 seconds. The gun is compatible with Type 10 APFSDS, JM33 APFSDS, and standard 120mm NATO ammunition. Secondary armament consists of a roof-mounted 12.7mm M2 Browning machine gun and a coaxial 7.62mm Type 74 machine gun. The vehicle is powered by a V8 diesel engine and a continuously variable transmission that allows for the same maximum speed in both forward and reverse directions. A hydropneumatic suspension system is used to adjust chassis height and manage recoil.

The Type 10 is operated by the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force and is produced in annual allotments. Japan entered negotiations with Turkey in 2014 regarding the joint development of a tank engine based on the Type 10's power plant for the Altay tank project. However, the proposal was abandoned due to Japan's arms export laws and disagreements over licensing and export rights.