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PLZ89


Type 89


Overview


PLZ89

A number of Chinese PLZ89 self-propelled howitzers on parade.
Source: www.china-defense-mashup.com - © copyright lies with original owner

Origin
China
Type
Self-propelled howitzer
Entered service
Early 1990's
Status
In service
Development
1980's
Developer
China - Norinco
Production
Early 1990's - 2000's
Producer
China - Norinco
Designations
PLZ89 (new naming system)
Type 89 (old naming system)
Notable users
China

Description


Introduction

The PLZ89 is a tracked 122mm self-propelled howitzer of Chinese origin. The PLZ89 is also known as the Type 89. It was designed in the 1980's to replace the Type 70 tracked 122mm howitzer. The newer PLZ07 has been designed to supplement the PLZ89.

Layout

The PLZ89 is based on a new tracked chassis that is derived from the Type 77 armored personnel carrier. The crew of five consists of a commander, driver, gunner and two loaders. The engine is mounted at the front right and the driver is seated at the left. The turret is fitted at the rear of the vehicle.

Firepower

The 122mm howitzer is derived from the D-30 and has a similar performance. The maximum rate of fire is 6 to 8 rounds per minute. Standard ammunition is fired out to 15km and special base bleed ammunition out to 21km. A total of 40 rounds of 122mm ammunition are carried. For self defense a 12.7mm QJC88 machine gun is mounted on the turret roof.

Protection

The PLZ89 is operated under full armor protection. The aluminum hull and turret armor protects the crew from small arms fire and shell splinters. NBC and fire suppression systems are fitted. A total of 8 smoke dischargers are fitted at the turret sides.

Mobility

The PLZ89 is based on a tracked chassis and has a reasonable cross country performance. A 450hp diesel engine provides propulsion. There is no mention of an auxiliary power unit. The PLZ89 is amphibious when assisted by flotation devices.

Users

The PLZ89 is fielded with the Chinese armed forces since the late 1990's. The PLZ89 was to become the standard 122mm self-propelled howitzer. No exports are reported.

Details


PLZ89

Right side view PLZ89 self-propelled howitzer.
Source: Chinese internet - © copyright lies with original owner

PLZ89 self-propelled howitzer

The PLZ89 is a tracked self-propelled howitzer of Chinese. Only a single version exists. The PLZ89 has a conventional layout with the driver and engine in the front of the hull and the turret with the other four crew members at the rear of the hull. The armament consists of a 122mm D-30 howitzer and a 12.7mm QJC88 heavy machinegun for self-defense.

Facts PLZ89
General
Origin
China
Type
Self-propelled howitzer
Crew
5 (commander, driver, gunner, 2 loaders)
Dimensions
Weight
20.5 t
Length
6.63 m hull
Width
3.2 m
Height
2.4 m to turret roof
3.14 m overall
Main armament
Type
122mm L/32 howitzer
Mount
Main armament in turret
Ammunition
40 shells
Elevation
Powered
Traverse
360°, powered
Stabilizer
No
Secondary armament
Type
12.7mm QJC88 heavy machine gun
Mount
Pintle mount on turret roof
Ammunition
50 rounds ready to fire
Traverse
Manual elevation and traverse
Chassis
Chassis type
Tracked chassis, 6 roadwheels
Layout
Drive sprocket front, idler rear
Suspension
Torsion bar
Automotive
Engine
12V150L12 diesel
Power output
450 hp
Mobility
Speed
60 km/h
6 km/h afloat
Range
500 km
Power to weight ratio
22.0 hp/t
Obstacle crossing
Fording
Amphibious with preparation
Protection
Armor type
Aluminum
NBC system
Yes, collective
Smoke system
2x4 smoke grenade dischargers
Equipment
Night vision
Yes, for driver

Related articles


PLZ07

The PLZ07 was developed to supplement and replace the PLZ89. Both vehicles feature the same 122mm ordnance.

Norinco QJC88

The QJC88 is fitted as secondary armament on the turret roof.