The Type 10 is a Third Generation Japanese main battle tank designed as a replacement for the recently retired Type 74 and the currently serving Type 90 tanks. Development of the new vehicle commenced in 1996. 13 Type 10s were delivered in 2010, followed by another 13 each in 2011 and 2012.
At 44 tons, the Type 10 is six tons lighter than the Type 90 and dimensionally smaller than its predecessors, but still manages to pack a punch thanks to its locally designed 44 calibre 120mm smooth bore main weapon. This is equivalent in firepower to the Rheinmetall gun fitted to the Leopard 2. Longer 55 calibre barrels are also available as an option and may be seen on later models. The Type 10 is fitted with an auto-loader, meaning a crew of only three is required – Commander, driver and gunner.
A coaxial machine gun is fitted, and a further external .50 cal may be fitted to the Commander’s cupola.
The Type 10’s use of nanocrystal steel and modular ceramic composite armour has significantly improved its defensive capabilities compared to the Type 90.
Power is supplied by a 1,200 hp V8 diesel engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission, delivering a top speed of 70 km/h – either forwards or backwards!
TAMIYA’S TYPE 10 IN THE BOX
Tamiya was quick off the mark with their brand-new kit of a brandnew vehicle. Their 1:35 scale Type 10 tank comprises a modest 205 parts in dark green plastic, two lengths of flexible vinyl track, one sheet of vinyl mesh, one sheet of die-cut clear acetate, four large and 20 small polythene caps, plus markings for three vehicles.
The smooth lines of this modern tank are very obvious from looking at the main hull and turret parts. Many of the lumps and bumps of traditional tanks have been smoothed over, covered up or recessed into the hull or turret. This streamlined design results in an even simpler build for the modeller, but this does not imply any lack of detail.
The surface textures on this kit are simply superb. The hull and turret are covered with antiskid patches, hatches, hinges and tie-downs, all beautifully done. The heavy skirts are also noteworthy, featuring some of the most convincing rubberised drape that I have ever seen in injectionmoulded plastic.
All the unique attributes of the Type 10 are present, including the armoured external Commander’s and gunner’s sights, each offering the option of open or closed flaps. The lenses for the sights, as well as the cupola vision blocks, are supplied on a clear die-cut acetate sheet. In an interesting example of recycling, Tamiya has supplied the acetate part for the Type 90 and provided instructions for cutting it into the appropriate sizes for this new model.