Japanese - Medium Tank Type 89 I-Go Type B

The Japanese Medium Tank Type 89 I-Go Type B was an improved version of the earlier Type A, introduced in the mid-1930s to enhance reliability and combat performance. The most significant upgrade was the replacement of the gasoline engine with a more dependable air-cooled diesel engine, making the Type B one of the world’s first mass-produced diesel-powered tanks. It retained the 57mm low-velocity gun for infantry support and one or two 7.7mm Type 91 machine guns, mounted in a riveted, boxy hull with a fully rotating turret. Armor thickness ranged from 6mm to 17mm, offering basic protection against small arms and shrapnel but not against more modern anti-tank weapons. The Type B served in the Second Sino-Japanese War and continued into the early stages of the Pacific War, where it began to show its age, especially when faced with newer Allied armor. Nonetheless, the Type 89B was a significant step in Japanese tank development, and its use of diesel technology influenced later designs. It remained in secondary and training roles by the time newer tanks like the Type 97 Chi-Ha entered frontline service.

Multi part resin model.

Printed by Imperator Models on License from Wargame 3D.