Type 98 So-Da Explained

Type 98 So-Da
Is Vehicle:yes
Origin:Empire of Japan
Type:Armored personnel carrier
Design Date:1937
Production Date:introduced in 1941[1]
Spec Label:Type 98 So-Da
Length:3.8m (12.5feet)
Width:1.9m (06.2feet)
Height:1.6m (05.2feet)
Weight:5 tons
Suspension:Bell crank
Speed:45km/h
Vehicle Range:200 km
Primary Armament:none
Armour:6–12 mm
Engine:diesel engine
Engine Power: at 2300 rpm
Crew:2+4–6
Payload Capacity:1 ton

The was an armored personnel and ammunition carrier used by the Imperial Japanese Army in World War II.

History and development

Type 98 So-Da was designed in 1937, with a chassis based on the Type 97 Te-Ke tankette. However, its engine compartment was moved to the front of the chassis. The fully tracked vehicle was first produced in 1941. The Type 98 So-Da was used as a personnel and ammunition carrier in forward-line areas. In addition, it was also used as an "artillery tractor" to tow a gun trailer.

Its hull had an open top and the "flatbed" in back had a double door at the rear. The flatbed could be covered with a tarp over the three rail supports. The towing coupling was secured to the frame of the hull on a "semi-elliptical spring". This protected the frame while hauling heavy equipment The total number of Type 98 So-Da vehicles produced is unknown.[1]

References

External links

Notes and References

  1. http://www3.plala.or.jp/takihome/so-da.htm Taki's Imperial Japanese Army: Type 98 "So-Da"