The Type 69 and Type 85 are two distinct Chinese-origin main battle tanks that have served as a backbone of the Pakistan Army’s armored forces, representing different generations of Chinese tank design. The Type 69 is an evolutionary step from the Type 59, which itself was a Chinese copy of the Soviet T-54/55. The Type 69 introduced several improvements, most notably a 100mm smoothbore gun (later variants received a 105mm rifled gun), an improved fire control system, and a more powerful engine. While now considered obsolete in comparison to modern MBTs, the Type 69 provided the Pakistan Army with a reliable and numerous fleet of tanks for a long period. Its simple design and rugged build made it easy to maintain and operate. The Type 85, on the other hand, represents a more significant advancement. It was a more modern design, featuring a larger, welded turret and a 125mm smoothbore gun with an autoloader, which reduced the crew to three. The Type 85 introduced more advanced composite armor and a modern fire-control system with a laser rangefinder. The Pakistan Army acquired various sub-variants of the Type 85, which provided a noticeable increase in firepower and protection over its older tanks. Although now largely replaced by more advanced platforms like the Al-Khalid and VT-4, the Type 69 and Type 85 remain in service in a reduced capacity, primarily in reserve or training roles.
- Type: Main Battle Tank (MBT)
- Type 69 Armament: 100mm smoothbore gun
- Type 69 Crew: 4
- Type 69 Key Features: Upgraded version of the Type 59, improved fire control, and a more powerful engine.
- Type 85 Armament: 125mm smoothbore gun with autoloader
- Type 85 Crew: 3
- Type 85 Key Features: First Chinese tank with a modern welded turret and autoloader, advanced armor, and a modern fire-control system.
