Is Armor Sufficient For The Job?
On the other hand, specific details regarding its armor remains unknown, but the modular composite armor is the same as the one used on the Type 10 tank.
Information circulating throughout the internet suggests that the frontal armor can resist up to 30mm projectiles while the side armor is enough to defend the crew from 14.5mm heavy machine gun fire.
Whatever the actual specs, as an fighting vehicle designed to conduct rapid reconnaissance, fire support, counter-insurgency operations, and limited anti-tank assaults, the MCV development team undoubtedly had resistance towards anti-tank weapons in mind, let alone small arms and heavy machine guns.
The MCV’s Status as a Light Tank
Despite surpassing a tank in mobility and possessing firepower equivalent to that of the Type 74 tank, the MCV does not render tanks in general as obsolete or unnecessary.
Yes, tanks in Honshu and Shikoku are to be replaced with a total of 260 MCVs, but conventional tanks are still required to prevail over enemy tanks and serve as an armored spearhead during a counteroffensive, as recently seen in the Russo-Ukrainian War.
Additionally, as long as tanks are stationed on Japanese soil, any invasion force would have to bring tanks of their own over a large body of water, something that is far from a cakewalk.
Therefore, tank units will continue in Hokkaido and Kyushu will continue to exist, and serve as an expeditionary striking force for island defense if necessary.
A rapid reaction asset for modern warfare?
So, what is the Type 16 MCV’s purpose then?
Well, the overall task of the MCV is to act as a “light tank” rapidly responding to enemy incursions on both the mainland and remote islands as a mobile strike force. Such rapid reaction asset with ample firepower and versatility is destined to be valued for situations where tank deployments are deemed unnecessary or belated.
So, while it does not replace conventional tanks entirely, the Type 16 MCV is more than a tempting alternative for old, outdated tanks awaiting retirement.
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