The Type 99 tank, also known by its designation ZTZ-99, is a Chinese main battle tank that first entered service in 2001. Intended to replace the older Type 88 tanks, it is a third-generation vehicle that now makes up the vast majority of China’s tank forces alongside the Type 96 tank, with over 1,200 units manufactured since production started in 1998. Whether China needs such a large land force, considering that much of its military and expansion efforts are focused on maritime and air superiority, is unclear, but the Type 99 is certainly an impressive tank that is capable of competing with its Russian and American rivals.
Originally based on the older T-72 tank, the current Type 99 has been heavily upgraded and updated in recent years to help make it an effective and vital part of the People’s Liberation Army. The weaponry of the Type 99 tank is now similar to both the Russian T-90 and the U.S.-made M1 Abrams. It also comes equipped with an advanced array of sensors and electronic systems that can help it track enemy tanks, providing accurate data for targeting. In terms of protection, it features composite armor and explosive reactive armor, which aims to damage incoming projectiles as they hit the tank to prevent them from causing major damage.
With a reported cost per unit of $2.5 million, the Type 99 is the most expensive tank in China’s military. It is significantly more expensive than the Type 96, which may explain why the country has produced more than double the number of Type 96 tanks, as it is far more cost-effective, even if not quite as advanced as the Type 99.
