PG87

Type 87

Overview

Type 87

A Chinese 25mm Type 87 anti-aircraft gun during a live fire excersize.
Source: www.sinodefence.com - © copyright lies with original owner

Origin

China

Type

Anti-aircraft gun

Entered service

Late 1980's

Status

In service

Development

1976 - 1984

Developer

China - Norinco

Production

1987 - present

Producer

China - Norinco

Designations

PG87 (new naming system)
Type 87 (old naming system)
WA309 (industry designation)

Notable users

China

Description

Introduction

The Type 87 is a towed anti-aircraft gun of Chinese origin. It was developed as a more capable alternative to the proven Soviet ZU-23 design. The Type 87 uses the same 25mm round as used on various armored vehicles, increasing ammunition commonality. Under the new naming convention the Type 87 is known as the PG87 in Chinese military service.

Layout

The Type 87 has been derived from the Soviet ZU-23 design. The Type 87 differs in three areas since it uses 25mm autocannon, has a Type 86 sight unit and is fitted with three crew seats. This allows the gunner to acquire targets while dedicated loaders provide for new ammunition.

Firepower

The Type 87 uses two 25x184mm versions of the ZU-23 autocannon. This results in an increased effective range of 3.2 km and reduced rate of fire of 600 to 700 rpm per barrel. Each gun is supplied with a 40 round ammunition belt. The 25mm rounds are also more effective against ground targets, having either a higher degree of armor penetration or a larger explosive radius.

Mobility

The Type 87 is normally towed by a 4x4 light truck. For increased mobility it can be mounted on a 6x6 truck. When mounted on a vehicle it is also easier to employ it against ground targets.

Users

The Type 87 is used by Chinese forces and has possibly been exported in small numbers. In Chinese service it replaced the less effective 14.5mm Type 58 anti-aircraft gun.

Details

Type 87

Top view of camouflaged Type 87 anti-aircraft gun.
Source: www.sinodefence.com - © copyright lies with original owner

Identifying the PG87

The Type 87 is a further development of the Russian ZU-23, which is produced in China as the Type 85. The Type 87 uses a larger caliber armament with reduced rate of fire. The Type 87 can be distinguished from the ZU-23 and Type 85 by the fluted barrels and tripple seat arrangement instead of two seats.