Type 88

   The Type 88, also referred as the PGZ88, self-propelled anti-aircraft gun was revealed in 1989. It was developed since the early 1980s. The Type 88 was the first Chinese fully-automatic SPAAG system. Only a small number of these vehicles were built for evaluation trials. It was not accepted to service due to unsatisfying performance.

   The Type 88 SPAAG is armed with two 37-mm guns. Armament of this vehicle was derived from the Type 74 towed twin 37-mm anti-aircraft gun. The Type 88 is fitted with an automatic loader. Guns can be also used against ground targets and light armored vehicles.

   The Type 88 is fitted with surveillance radar, optical sights, electro-optical director, ballistic computer and friend or foe identification system. Vehicle's radar has a detection range of 15 km and altitude of 3 km. Reaction time is 6 - 11 seconds. The Type 88 SPAAG is described as all-weather, day/night system by it's manufacturer, however weapon's efficiency is reduced at night or in bad weather.

   Chassis of the Type 88 is well protected for a SPAAG system, however turret has only thin armor, which protects against small arms fire.

   Vehicle has a crew of four, including commander, gunner, tracker and driver.

   The Type 88 SPAAG is mounted on a tracked chassis of the Type 79 main battle tank. Vehicle is powered by a diesel engine, developing 570 hp.