PLA Armour Modernization: Type 98 MBT
By Patrick Devenny
5 Aug 2005
As part of its ongoing force reduction and modernization programme, the PLA has made significant cuts in its overall armoured corps. Such reductions match the overall structural advancements experienced by the entire PLA beginning in the 1980s. One of the more profound products of this strategic revolution in PLA armoured tactics is the development of the Type 98 MBT. Although information concerning the Type 98’s armour is scarce, observations suggest that the Type 98 represents a significant advancement in non-Western armour development. Yet while Chinese armour is certainly central to China’s strategic position on the Asian continent, their usefulness is severely degraded in the more likely event of a conflict over Taiwan until a sea lift capability is developed. Were the Type 98 then deployed against Taiwan or the island’s hypothetical American protectors, it would compare very favourably: the gulf separating the PLA tank force from its main competitors has narrowed significantly within the past three years, a trend that will only continue with planned further development and construction of the Type 98
5 Aug 2005
As part of its ongoing force reduction and modernization programme, the PLA has made significant cuts in its overall armoured corps. Such reductions match the overall structural advancements experienced by the entire PLA beginning in the 1980s. One of the more profound products of this strategic revolution in PLA armoured tactics is the development of the Type 98 MBT. Although information concerning the Type 98’s armour is scarce, observations suggest that the Type 98 represents a significant advancement in non-Western armour development. Yet while Chinese armour is certainly central to China’s strategic position on the Asian continent, their usefulness is severely degraded in the more likely event of a conflict over Taiwan until a sea lift capability is developed. Were the Type 98 then deployed against Taiwan or the island’s hypothetical American protectors, it would compare very favourably: the gulf separating the PLA tank force from its main competitors has narrowed significantly within the past three years, a trend that will only continue with planned further development and construction of the Type 98
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