The Type 74 105 mm self-propelled howitzer is only used by Japan. It shares a number of automotive components with the Type 73 armored personnel carrier which was developed during the same time. Komatsu developed the chassis, while the howitzer and turret were designed by Japan Steel Works. The first prototypes were completed in 1969–1970. The howitzer was accepted for service in 1974.
It carries 30 rounds on board. It is amphibious when using the erectable flotation screen stowed around the periphery of the upper hull. It is equipped with an NBC filtration system.
Type 74 was attached to 117th Artillery Battalion in Hokkaido. In 1999, all Type 74s were retired and the battalion was disbanded.[1]
