How Capable Are JGSDF’s Type 81 Surface-To-Air Missiles?

For Short-Range Air Defense

Contrary to its image, the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) has surprisingly well-developed air defense network, ranging from the Type 03 medium range air missiles to the portable MANPADS.

Among these equipment, the Type 81 Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM), or more commonly known as the “Tan-SAM,” is widely used to provide short-range air cover at the division level.

• General Overview (Type C varient)

Development of the Type 81 SAM began in the 1960s, and was officially introduced in 1981 as one of the key assets to intercepting Soviet aircraft from the ground.

Although 35 years have passed since its deployment, it remains in service as it has made its way to most units (something rare for a JGSDF equipment), including upgraded versions like the Type C model.

The system typically consists of two launchers and a fire control unit each mounted on Type 73 trucks. In addition to JGSDF, it is also employed by the Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) for base defense purposes, and was previously used by the navy as well.

Each launcher can hold four missiles and has a 360-degree firing range, ensuring coverage against targets from all directions. Furthermore, the phased array radar integrated into the fire control unit enables the system to simultaneously engagement up to two targets.

The missile itself is infrared-guided, allowing it to independently track targets upon launch, though some prefer using the optical targeting devices for close-in defense.

Interestingly, such “fire-and-forget” feature makes it possible to operate without the radar systems at the expense of shorter range and response time.

The Upgraded Type C Variant

JGSDF is currently shifting towards the Type C variant, which has been improved to automatically correct its flight course against moving targets.

This Type C model comes with two different missiles – one using infrared guidance and optical imaging for tracking, and the other adopting active radar guidance.  Among these two, the latter is slightly longer in length and more effective against infrared jamming.

Both Type C missiles are equipped with an upgraded rocket motor, extending the range while reducing the amount of smoke emission.

Type 81 SAM (photo: JGSDF)

However, due to limitations in handling cruise missiles, JASDF has not adopted this variant, opting for the newer Type 11 Short-Range SAM instead.

Deemed as the next Tan-SAM, JGSDF has also been striving to procure the Type 11 SAMs, albeit at a slow pace. Thus the Type 81 SAM, including the older variants, is expected to remain in service for some time.