Komatsu is a well-known Japanese corporation, that manufactures construction, mining, forestry, diesel engines and industrial equipment
and military equipment
In fact, the company since the 1980s provided the Type 82 NBC reconnaissance vehicle
and the Type 87 Reconnaissance and Patrol Vehicle for Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces
The Type 87 Reconnaissance and Patrol Vehicle, is a 6x6 wheeled Armoured Fighting Vehicle, developed for the armed reconnaissance role
The vehicle is based on the chassis of the Type 82 command post vehicle
Both vehicles have a 6x6 wheelbase and share many automotive components
The vehicle weighs about 15 tons, is 5.99 meters long, 2.48 meters wide, and 2.8 meters high
The crew of 5 includes: driver, radio operator, gunner, observer and commander
The Type 87 features the same kind of hull construction that is common for armored military vehicles
where the armoured exterior of the vehicle acts both as protection and as the main structural framework
Its rectangular body is sloped in the front
The hull is made out of steel and is fully welded, and utilizes many of the same automotive components of the Type 82 and features power steering
The main armament is a Japanese version of the Oerlikon Contraves 25 millimeter autocannon produced under licence
which can fire various kinds of ammunition at up to 600 rounds per minute
Its armor, while sturdy enough to protect the vehicle and crew against small arms fire and grenade shrapnel
will not protect against heavier ordnance
It is well armed for its class but lacks truly amphibious capabilities, being only able to ford up to 1.5 metres of water
Type 87 is powered by an Isuzu 10PBI diesel engine, with 305 hp, for a top speed of 100 km/h, an operating range of 500 km
There is a central tire inflation system to cross the most sloppy grounds
The Type 87 can climb a 60% gradient, 30% side slope, 60 cm vertical step and 1.5 m trench
Given its mobility, the Type 87 serves as an "Armored Reconnaissance"
and can operate independently or as part of a fast-moving armored force
conducting critical scouting, fire support, and convoy defense sorties as needed
As its designation suggests, the type was taken into service in 1987 and continues with an active presence in the JGSDF