Type 92

   The Type 92 (also known as the WZ 551 and ZSL92) wheeled IFV was first shown in prototype form by NORINCO in 1986. At that time many observed that the overall design resembled that of the French Renault VAB armored personnel carrier but subsequent investigations have shown that although there may have been some French influence the Type 92 has many differences in overall dimensions, weights and many other aspects. This armored vehicle entered service with Chinese Army in 1995 and is used in large numbers. Export operators are Bosnia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

   The overall layout and form of the Type 92 follows that of the VAB, with one variant, the NGV-1 IFV, being fitted with a French Giat Industries one-man turret mounting a 25-mm cannon. The more usual IFV armament is a 25-mm cannon on an external turret mounting, the same mounting being also used on the Type YW 307 IFV and the Type WZ 501A. This cannon can fire single, 3-round burst, 5-round burst or in full auto mode. There is also a coaxial 7.62-mm machine gun.

   It is claimed that the Type 92 provides all-round protection against 12.7-mm rounds. Vehicle is fitted with collective NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems.

   The Type 92 IFV has a crew of three and can carry 9 troops. There are a number of firing ports in the vehicle hull.

   Vehicle is powered by a German Deutz diesel engine, developing 320 hp. It is fitted with central tyre inflation system and run-flat tyres. This infantry fighting vehicle is fully amphibious. On water it is propelled by two waterjets. This military vehicle can be airlifted by Il-76 or similar aircraft.

Variants

   Type 92 armored personnel carrier, also referred as the WZ 551. This vehicle similar to the Type 92 IFV, but is armed with a roof-mounted 12.7-mm machine gun;

   Type 02 tank destroyer, also referred as the PTL02. It is armed with a 100-mm smoothbore gun;

   Type 05 self-propelled mortar system, armed with a 120-mm breech-loaded mortar. This variant is also referred as the PLL05;

   Anti-riot vehicle;

   Recovery vehicle;

   Armored ambulance;

   Command vehicle;

   Reconnaissance vehicle;

   Improved variant of the Type 92 IFV, fitted with 30-mm cannon was observed;

   HJ-9 4x4 anti-tank missile carrier.