Type 87 Chu-MAT
87式対戦車誘導弾
Overview
Chu-MAT
Chu-MAT system on display.
Source: Los688 -
© public domain
Type 87 (Japanese service)
87ATM (formal abbreviation)
ATM-3 (design project)
Description
Introduction
The Chu-MAT is a late Cold War anti-tank guided missile of Japanese origin, and is also known as the Type 87. It was designed around the early 1980's as a medium range missile to complement the earlier Type 79 Jyu-MAT and to replace the older Type 64 MAT. The Chu-MAT is a very advanced and complex system with good performance. The Chu-MAT is in the same performance league as the French MILAN and Soviet 9K111 Fagot.
Design
The Chu-MAT system consists of a launch assembly and a guidance unit on a large tripod. The launch assembly consists of a reusable box on which the launch tube is fitted. A bipod and optical sight are fitted. It is understood that it is possible to launch the Chu-MAT as a free flight missile in case of an emergency. The targeting system consists of an advanced laser designator system on a tripod for SACLOS guidance. The launch assembly may be attached on the tripod alongside the targeting system or positioned in the field up to 200 meters away. Positioning the launcher in the field may be wise as the missile's exhaust gasses may interfere with the laser. The missile must be guided all the way until it strikes and the operator cannot leave his post early.
Firepower
Official data on the range and penetration of the Chu-MAT is not available. The maximum effective range is about 2 km. The penetration is estimated at roughly 700mm RHA. If not obscured by smoke the SACLOS guidance provides for a very good chance to hit its target, even when the target is moving.
Mobility
The Chu-MAT is generally transported by a Type 73 jeep and can be carried over short distances by infantry in the field. The Chu-MAT is not launched from the Type 73 jeep and is not employed on armored vehicles.
Users
The Chu-MAT is only used only by the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force. As with all Japanese military equipment the Chu-MAT is not exported. The Chu-MAT replaced some of the Type 64 MAT, but the production number has been too low to replace all older missiles. It is expected to remain in service for many years to come, even though the Type 01 LMAT is introduced.
System composition
Chu-MAT launch post
The Chu-MAT has an interesting and versatile launch post system. It consist of a guidance unit and reusable launch post assembly that holds the missile tubes. Often all these components are mounted together on a large tripod.
Alternatively, the guidance unit can also be mounted on a smaller man portable tripod. With the missile mounted on either the large tripod or using the small bipod incorporated in the launcher assembly. The guidance unit can be located up to 200 meters away from the launcher assembly.
Chu-MAT missile
The Chu-MAT missile is fitted with a HEAT warhead for use against armored vehicles. It can also be used with limited effectiveness against soft targets, bunkers and buildings. As far as known there is only a single type of missile available.
Details
Media
Chu-MAT
Chu-MAT missile on heavy tripod with guidance unit located away from the launcher.
Source: Japanese internet
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Chu-MAT
Chu-MAT system in the field.
Source: Japanese internet
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Chu-MAT
Chu-MAT system in the field.
Source: Japanese internet
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
MILAN
The Franco-German MILAN has a similar role and range as the Chu-MAT. The MILAN is a simpler system that uses wire guidance.
9K111 Fagot
The Soviet 9K111 Fagot (NATO: AT-4 Spigot) has a similar role and range as the Chu-MAT. However, it has less armor penetration and the sight is integrated with the launch post.