Type 97 Te-Ke

History

In 1937, the Imperial Japanese Army made an early request for a light tank, and the Type 97 Te-Ke was completely superior to Allied armor. The system's primary armament, with less crew protection, relies on limited reconnaissance and infantry support missions and the occasional use of supply trailers.

The system proved moderately useful in the early days of Pacific hegemony, but that quickly changed as the United States was drawn into World War II.

The Type 97 is a light tank with two main guns. Power comes from a 65-horsepower Ikega 4-cylinder diesel engine. The system has a top speed of 26 mph and a range of 155 miles in pristine road conditions. The armament consisted of a 37mm gun mounted on the turret. The original Type 97 Te-Ke design had the engine mounted forward of the fuselage along with the driver, while the turret and commander were set back.

Later production models solved this problem by moving the turret closer to the driver and relocating the engine to the rear.

The Type 97 Te-Ke is in service throughout the Pacific Rim and has conducted extensive operations in China. Despite its widespread involvement, the system is far from ideal on an ever-changing frontline, where heavy weapons and armor become key to the tank's survival.

Specification

Basic

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Performance

Armor

Not available.

Changes