Men of War Japan

Contents The war in the Pacific. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 How to use this guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Infantry squads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Recruits....................................................................................................................7 Assault infantry........................................................................................................7 Regular infantry........................................................................................................7 Paratroopers.............................................................................................................8 Sappers.....................................................................................................................8 SNLF platoon..............................................................................................................8 Mechanized SNLF battalion.......................................................................................9 Engineers (AP)..........................................................................................................9 Engineers (AT)...........................................................................................................9 Kamikazes............................................................................................................... 10 Machine gunners of the Empire............................................................................. 11 Marine paratroopers.............................................................................................. 11

Specialized soldiers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Rifleman.................................................................................................................. 12 Submachine gun..................................................................................................... 12 Machine gunner...................................................................................................... 12 Team with anti-tank rifle........................................................................................ 13 Anti-tank team........................................................................................................ 13 Crew........................................................................................................................ 14 Flamethrower team................................................................................................ 14 Sniper..................................................................................................................... 14 Officer..................................................................................................................... 15 Radio operator........................................................................................................ 15

Fixed weapons and artillery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Heavy machine gun Machine gun.............................................................................. 16 Type 2 20 mm AA AA defense..................................................................................... 16 Type 94 mortar Mortar.............................................................................................. 16 Type 1 47 mm AT AT gun .......................................................................................... 17 Type 2 57 mm AT AT gun . ........................................................................................ 17 Type 90 75 mm AT AT gun ....................................................................................... 17 Type 4 75 mm AA AA defense / AT gun . ...................................................................... 18 Type 91 105 mm howitzer Field howitzer.................................................................... 18 Type 96 150 mm howitzer Field howitzer.................................................................... 18 200 mm rocket Rocket mortar.................................................................................... 19

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Light vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Type 92 Scout vehicle................................................................................................. 20 Ha-Go Light tank........................................................................................................ 21 Ke-Nu Light tank........................................................................................................ 22 Chi-Ha 57 Light tank................................................................................................... 23 Chi-Ha 47 Light tank................................................................................................... 24 Isuzu AA AA vehicle . ................................................................................................. 25 SS-D Minesweeper...................................................................................................... 25

Tank destroyer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Ho-Ni 1 Light tank destroyer.......................................................................................... 26 Ho-Ri 2 Heavy tank destroyer........................................................................................ 27 Ho-Ri 1 Heavy tank destroyer........................................................................................ 28

Self-propelled artillery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Ho-Ni 2 Self-propelled howitzer..................................................................................... 29 Ho-Ro Self-propelled howitzer....................................................................................... 30 Ha-To Self-propelled howitzer....................................................................................... 31 Isuzu mortar Self-propelled mortar.............................................................................. 31

Tanks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Chi-He Medium tank................................................................................................... 32 Ho-I Medium tank....................................................................................................... 33 Chi-Nu Medium tank................................................................................................... 34 Chi-To Medium tank................................................................................................... 35 Chi-Ri Heavy tank....................................................................................................... 36 Chi-Ha 120 Light tank................................................................................................. 38

Transport and logistics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Type 97 Motorcycle.................................................................................................... 39 Ho-Ha Armored half track............................................................................................. 39 Isuzu (transport) Supply truck................................................................................... 40 Isuzu (supplies) Supply truck.................................................................................... 40 Isuzu (engineers) Supply truck.................................................................................. 40

Special attacks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 ¡Banzai!................................................................................................................... 41

Japanese campaign battles Battle of Khalkhin Gol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 11, 1939. Before the beginning of the Second World War, the Soviet Union and Japan maintained a border war that reached its peak when the Mongolian Army

Chronology

occupied part of Japanese territory in Manchukuo.

May 11, 1939 Battle of Khalkhin Gol

The battle took the name of the river Khalkhin Gol, which crossed through the scene of the battle.

The war in the Pacific In 1937, Japan invaded China. In September 1940, Japan signed the Tripartite Pact with Germany and Italy. In response to their expansionist aspirations in Asia, the western powers ordered the blockade of oil to the Japanese Empire.

Battle of Singapore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 7, 1942. Japan attacked the fortification of Singapore, the most important British military base in Southeast Asia. The objective was to take control of a funda-

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese Air Force launched an attack on the American base

mental strategic point in order to guarantee supply

of Pearl Harbor in the Hawaiian Islands. Three days later, Japanese troops landed on the

routes and control communications with Malaysia.

island of Luzon and began the conquest of the Philippines.

Siam, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Java, Borneo, Burma, New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. But in the spring of 1942, the powerful Japanese fleet was destroyed by the United

Battle of Iwo Jima. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 19, 1945.

States Navy in the Coral Sea and in the Battle of Midway, which put a stop to its advance

One of the decisive battles of the Second World

towards Australia. Japan began to show signs of weakness and economic inferiority in its

War. The allied landing on the island of Iwo Jima,

campaign against the United States.

converted into a fortress by the Japanese Army,

Japanese Army fought fiercely against the most powerful fleet ever seen in the Pacific. Not even the first time use of kamikaze pilots could prevent their defeat. On February 19, 1945, the Battle of Iwo Jima began, the most bloody of all the Pacific battles. 20,000 Japanese soldiers died at the hands of the United States Army. On April 1, in Okinawa, the kamikazes punished the enemy fleet, but Japan lost the Yamato, their prize battleship. On August 6, the first atomic bomb devastated Hiroshima. Two days later the Soviet Union declared war on Japan and invaded Manchukuo and Korea. On August 9, the second atom bomb fell on Nagasaki. Not long after, the Emperor announced the unconditional surrender of Japan.

February 7, 1942 Battle of Singapore June 4, 1942 Battle of Midway June 7, 1942 Battle of Guadalcanal October 20, 1944 Battle of Leyte (Philippines) February 19, 1945 Battle of Iwo Jima

In just a few months, the Imperial army destroyed the British Pacific fleet and occupied

On October 20, 1944, the Battle of Leyte in the Philippines began. For several days, the

December 7, 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor

took 36 days of hard fighting for control of one of the key strategic enclaves in the Pacific.

March 3, 1945 Fall of Manila April 1, 1945 Battle of Okinawa August 6, 1945 Atomic bomb on Hiroshima August 9, 1945 Atomic bomb on Nagasaki August 15, 1945 Capitulation of Japan

6

Japanese Imperial Army: How to use this guide

How to use this guide M Command Points (Special) C Control Points

Assault infantry M 135 C 25

Quantity 6 Combat guide Inventory:

Unit's . equipment

Name of the unit Icon

R Reload time A Maximum range

66



10

63

54

30

70

110 m A 4x 44

110 m

V 35

M Command Points (Special) C Control Points

1 29 2 3 M5A125 Stuart Light tank25 300 13 M 32 C 4 38 5 6 25 Main:

L 37 mm R 3 G 2x 0.30 caliber

4 SD Crew Passengers S

Y Can tow / be towed

V 35

D4 S-

A 110 m

4



Type 99 rifle

Type 100 submachine gun

Inventory:

16x

6x

10

30

70

4x

8x

4x

110 m

Regular infantry M 150 C 25.5 H 10 X 2

1 29 2 25 3 25 Inventory: 38 5 32 6 25 4

armored enemy scout vehicles such as the German SdKfz 223 and Panzer I or the Japanese Type 92s.

1 4

Front

2

Side Rear

79x2x 0.30 caliber68x G

5x

3.400x

1x

The British used the surname of the Confederate States Army general, Jeb Stuart, to name the whole series of United States M3 and M5

6

3

1

tanks. The M5A1 could carry the same 37 mm weapon as the Greyhound; although its speed was slower, it was better armored and had

Type 99 rifle

nearly double the emergency ammunition supply. It was efficient for providing close support to the infantry as well as confronting lightlyarmored enemy scout vehicles such as the German SdKfz 223 and Panzer I or the Japanese Type 92s.

Type 100 submachine gun

Inventory:

Inventory:

79x

Unit's . equipment

6

tanks. The M5A1 could carry the same 37 mm weapon as the Greyhound; although its speed was slower, it was better armored and had Armor: nearly double the emergency ammunition supply. It was efficient for providing close support to the infantry as well as confronting lightly-

Turret

Machine guns mounted

H 10 X 2

AP: 66 63 54 44 The British used the surname of the Confederate States Army general, Jeb Stuart, to name the whole series of United States M3 and M5

Armor (in mm of steel)

3 6

AP:

Type

6x L 37 mm 8xR 3

Assault infantry M 125 C 25

V Speed

M1 Garand semi-automatic rifle

Armor:

Penetration into armor according to distance . (in mm of steel)

5

10x

M5A1 Stuart Light tank M 300 C 13

Inventory:

MP 28 submachine gun

Inventory:

4

Thompson submachine gun

Main: 16x

1

M1 Garand semi-automatic rifle

H 8 X 1

2 Type 99 rifle

Assault infantry 8x C 25 4xH 10 X 2 M 135

6x

6

L Caliber of weapon

6

H 10 X 2

4

Thompson submachine gun

16x

Recruits M 60 C 16

1

Weapon icon

Hull

H Number of men who make up the unit X Weapons handling skills

Combat guide

Name of weapon

7

Infantry squads

Name of the unit Icon

Combat guide

68x

5x

3.400x

1x

12x

3x

6x

2x

10x

Type 99 machine gun

8

Japanese Imperial Army: Infantry squads Paratroopers M 225 C 30

8

H 10 X 3

6 Type 99 machine gun

20x

16x

2x

2 Type 2 submachine gun

Inventory:

25x

9 Mechanized SNLF battalion M 445 C 35 H 10 X 4

2 Type 99 rifle

Combat guide

5x

40x

2

MP 28 submachine gun

2 Type 99 machine gun

Sappers M 50 C 6

Type 4 rocket launcher

Inventory:

20x

H 2 X 2

2

14x

10x Engineers (AP) M 150 C 12

Type 100 submachine gun Inventory:

12x

H 4 X 2

4

2x

Type 100 submachine gun

SNLF platoon M 355 C 35

6

Inventory:

60x

H 10 X 4

2 Type 2 submachine gun

2

Engineers (AT) M 200 C 12

MP 28 submachine gun

2 Type 99 machine gun

4 Type 100 submachine gun

Type 4 rocket launcher

Inventory:

20x

Inventory:

14x

10x

12x

4x

28x

H 4 X 2

4x

10

Japanese Imperial Army: Infantry squads Kamikazes M 1 C 15

Combat guide Machine gunners of the Empire M 2 C 24 H 10 X 2

H 5 X 2

During the war in the Pacific, soldiers of the Imperial Army won the reputation for never

11

2

surrendering, substantiated by the small number

4 Type 99 rifle

of Japanese prisoners that were taken during the campaign, compared to their opponents.

Inventory:

Many United States soldiers saw how, on facing

10x

4 MP 28 submachine gun

Type 99 machine gun

4x

defeat, the Imperial soldiers would shout "Tenno

Kamikazes To serve in the Japanese Army was seen as serving the Emperor. The military culture dictated that it was a great honor to die in his name, following the Samurai concept of servitude. On the other hand, signs of cowardice and disobedience were a disgrace for the individual, their family and community. These beliefs were profoundly instilled in all Japanese soldiers, who were trained to face death before dishonor.

Heika Banzai!" (Long live the emperor!) before charging into battle, demonstrating, with

Marine paratroopers M 3 C 30 H 10 X 3

this triumphal shout, their willingness to die before being defeated. Following the Samurai code of honor, these Japanese soldiers preferred "gyokusai" (honorable death) before being defeated. Armed with submachine guns, these soldiers

The marine paratroopers were an elite corps that formed part of the Special Naval

did not hesitate to use the powerful explosives they carried in order to exchange their lives

Landing Forces (SNLF). Equipped with light armaments, the main objective of

for those of their enemies.

these units was to attack key points in coastal areas, supporting amphibious assaults and landings or capturing airfields and other strategic enclaves. Equipped with an armored halftrack and armed with rifles, light machine guns

5

and antipersonnel mines, these elite troops were especially well prepared for capturing strategic enemy positions and then securing these areas, laying Type 100 submachine gun

minefields and resisting enemy infantry counterattacks.

8

2 Type 99 rifle

Inventory:

Inventory:

5x

26x

22x

Type 99 machine gun

16x

2x

6x

40x

12

Japanese Imperial Army: Specialized soldiers

Combat guide

13

Specialized soldiers Rifleman M 11 C 2.5

Team with anti-tank rifle M 60 C 6 H 2 X 3

H 1 X 2

1

2 Type 99 rifle

Type 100 submachine gun

Inventory:

1x

1 Type 97 AT rifle

Inventory:

1x

1x

2x

2x

Submachine gun M 12 C 2.5 H 1 X 2

1

1x Anti-tank team M 70 C 6

2 Type 100 submachine gun

2x

1x Machine gunner M 40 C 3 H 1 X 2

1 Type 99 machine gun

1x

Type 4 rocket launcher

Inventory:

1x

Inventory:

1 Type 100 submachine gun

Inventory:

H 2 X 3

2x

2x

1x

11x

Anti-tank rifles The most effective infantry response against the threat from light armored vehicles. These were extraordinarily powerful rifles which fired large caliber armor-piercing ammunition. With long range and high accuracy, they were capable of destroying scout vehicles and light tanks from long distances. They could also be used against enemy infantry: their projectiles were so heavy that they could go through barricades and obstacles and hit the soldiers hidden behind them, as well as the gun crews, machine guns and other fixed weapons. The anti-tank rifles lost efficiency as soon as medium and heavy tanks appeared on the battlefield, as the armor of these vehicles was too tough and could only be damaged with lucky shots against the engine and other weak points of the hull. One anti-tank projectile fired point blank could go through a 30 mm thick steel plate. However, their penetration capacity was considerably reduced the further the weapon was from the target. At the best firing distance possible, they could penetrate plates up to a maximum of 10 mm.

14

Japanese Imperial Army: Specialized soldiers

Crew M 10

C 4

Combat guide

Officer M 160 C 8

H 2 X 2

2

15

1

1

Type 14 Nambu pistol

Type 14 Nambu pistol

Inventory:

1x

Flamethrower team M 75 C 5 H 2 X 2

1

1 Type 100 submachine gun

4x

Flamethrower

1x

Radio operator M 4 C 11

3

Inventory:

H 3 X 2

1 Type 100 submachine gun

Flare pistol

Inventory:

1x

1x Sniper M 160 C 8

1 Type 99 sniper rifle Inventory:

3x

Flare pistol

Inventory:

1x

2x

H 1 X 3

1x

1x

4x

H 1 X 4

2x

2x

1x

21x

16

Japanese Imperial Army: Fixed weapons and artillery

Combat guide

Fixed weapons and artillery Heavy machine gun Machine gun M 100 C 5 Main:

Type 1 47 mm AT AT gun M 140 C 5





L 7.7 mm R Auto A 80 m

Main:

L 47 mm R 4

AP:

73

69

59



10

30

70

Inventory:

Inventory:

1030x

51x Type 2 20 mm AA AA defense M 200 C 2.5

Main:





29

27

21



10

30

70

Main:

18 100 m

Y





Y





Y

39 130 m

L 57 mm R 4.5 A 130 m 88

84

72



10

30

70

36 130 m

Inventory:

51x Type 94 mortar Mortar M 350 C 5 L 90 mm R 5

AP:

15

15

15



10

30

70

Inventory:

121x



5x

AP:

1x

Main:



A 130 m

Type 2 57 mm AT AT gun M 220 C 5

Inventory:

900x

50x

Y

L 20 mm R Auto A 100 m

AP:

17

A 110 m 15 110 m





50x

5x

Type 90 75 mm AT AT gun M 280 C 5

Main:

L 75 mm R 5.5 A 130 m

AP:

107

102

93



10

30

70

71 130 m

Inventory:

1x

51x

50x

5x

1x

18

Japanese Imperial Army: Fixed weapons and artillery Type 4 75 mm AA AA defense / AT gun M 500 C 10

Main:

L 75 mm R 6

AP:

146

138



10

30





124

Main:

84

19 200 mm rocket Rocket mortar M 5 C 5

Y

A 150 m

70

Combat guide





Y

L 200 mm R 80 A 180 m

In 1943, the Japanese developed a 200 mm rocket mortar that fired self-propelled

150 m

projectiles stabilized with fins. This feature made it more accurate and gave it a greater range of fire, making it superior to conventional mortars. The first units were deployed in

Inventory:

51x

the Battle of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Powerful and economical, considerable numbers

50x

5x

of this rocket launcher were produced and stored as a precaution against a possible amphibious invasion of their national territory.

Type 91 105 mm howitzer Field howitzer M 600 C 10 Main:

The 200 mm rockets had a long range and high explosive power, outperforming the





Y

L 105 mm R 70 A 220 m

infantry's 90 mm mortars by far. However, the reload time was slow, and only one projectile could be fired every one and a half minutes. The blast radius of these rockets was very wide and they could wipe out an entire squad of soldiers if hit in open country, as well as seriously damage or destroy armored vehicles close to the impact point.

Inventory:

66x

Inventory:

1x

21x Type 96 150 mm howitzer Field howitzer M 800 C 10

Main:

L 150 mm R 75 A 250 m

Inventory:

36x

12x

1x





Y

1x

Mortars All nations provided their infantry with some kind of portable mortar. These weapons were fundamental in providing support fire during attacks on fortified positions defended by infantry units, protected by barricades or sandbags. Mortars were also very efficient at bombarding weapons emplacements, as the shrapnel from their projectiles could injure a gun crew without damaging the weapon, allowing it to be recovered. As they had a short range, it was important to deploy mortars behind large obstacles such as rock formations, buildings or unevenness of the ground. The parabola described by their projectiles reached such a height that they could even be used to fire above multi-storey buildings.

20

Japanese Imperial Army: Light vehicles

Combat guide

Light vehicles Type 92 Scout vehicle M 150 C 10 Armor:

1 15 2 15 3 15 4 20 5 20 6 20 G 4x Type 99

21 Ha-Go Light tank M 160 C 11

Main:

V 38

D 5 S - Y

L 37 mm R 3

AP:

52

48

38



10

30

70

V 38

A 110 m 28 110 m

Armor:

1 12 2 12 3 6 4 12 5 12 6 12 G 2x Type 1

Its five occupants operated the four machine guns that covered the front and both sides of the vehicles, as well as the machine gun mounted on the revolving upper turret.

Armed with a 37 mm gun, the Type 95 was

Ha-Go

also equipped with two machine guns: one

The first Type 95 HaGo was manufactured in 1933. Thanks to its limited armor, this tank matched the speed of transport vehicles used by the Imperial Infantry. Thanks to the limited number of tanks and antitank weapons shown by the enemy army, the Type 95 proved effective in its interventions in the Manchuria and China campaigns.

on the front part of the bodywork and one on the rear part of the turret.

This deployment of armament made the Type 92 an excellent unit for harassing enemy

Approximately 2,000 units of this model were

infantry, as long as the latter did not have

manufactured that were used by the marines

support from armed vehicles.

of the Imperial Navy during the war in the

Type 92

Pacific. Nevertheless, and in spite

This armored reconnaissance vehicle was used by marine infantry troops in support of their land operations.

of the success obtained during confrontations against infantry battalions, the HaGo showed that it could not measure up to allied tanks of the era. Its limited armor and armament advised against its use for infantry support in hostile territory.

Inventory:

5.120x

D 3 S 2

Inventory:

1x

69x

50x

5x

2.460x

1x

22

Japanese Imperial Army: Light vehicles Ke-Nu Light tank M 180 C 9 Main:

V 38

58

52

41



10

30

70

30 110 m

To do this, the Chi-Ha medium tank turret was mounted on the modified chassis of the Ha-Go, which allowed a larger main gun to be added.

D 3 S 2

V 29

D 4 S 4

L 57 mm R 4.5 A 110 m

AP:

58

52

41



10

30

70

30 110 m

Armor:

Armor:

1 12 2 12 3 6 4 25 5 25 6 12

1 25 2 15 3 7 4 25 5 25 6 12

G 2x Type 1

G 2x Type 1 The Chi-Ha performed well as a support tank.

Ke-Nu Vehicle designed to resolve the problems presented by the narrow turret of the original HaGo.

23 Chi-Ha 57 Light tank M 200 C 13

Main:

L 57 mm R 4.5 A 110 m

AP:

Combat guide

It had slightly superior armor to that of the Ha-Go, especially at the front, and had better

The 57 mm gun fired explosive projectiles with greater firepower, which made it more efficient than the Ha-Go when fighting against enemy infantry.

armament. In spite of these advantages, the

Chi-Ha 57

front armor was vulnerable to lighter anti-tank guns, such as the American M3 or the Soviet

This improved version of the Ha-Go was developed in 1936. The Type 97 included a turret for two crew and the armor and armament was considerably increased with respect to its predecessor. It was one of the most used tanks of the war, with 1,162 units manufactured during the first years of the conflict.

M-37, and its low speed did not permit it to flank enemy tanks without receiving return fire.

100 units of the Ke-Nu were manufactured.

Inventory:

51x

Inventory:

50x

5x

2.460x

1x

71x

36x

5x

2.410x

1x

24

Japanese Imperial Army: Light vehicles Chi-Ha 47 Light tank M 240 C 15

Main:

L 47 mm R 4

AP:

73

69

59



10

30

70

V 30

Combat guide Isuzu AA AA vehicle M 250 C 12.5

D 5 S 4 Main:

A 130 m 39 130 m

25

D 4 S - Y

V 18

D 4 S 4

L 20 mm R Auto A 100 m

AP:

29

27

21



10

30

70

18 100 m

Armor:

An Isuzu lorry that transported a 20 mm,

1 25 2 20 3 20 4 25 5 25 6 25

automatic anti-aircraft gun was useful for

G 1x Type 99

V 30

giving fire support to the allied infantry during their assaults, and for defending an area with possible incursions of light vehicles. It had two disadvantages: the chassis offered little

G 2x Type 1

protection against explosive ammunition and the driver's cab prevented the gun from

After confronting Soviet tanks, superior in range

turning through 360 degrees or from aiming to the front.

and power, the Imperial Army proposed to

Inventory:

develop better armed medium tanks. In 1941, the design was completed for a new 47 mm high velocity gun named Type 1. This new

630x

weapon managed to increase the rate of fire with regard to the previous 57 mm gun, which gave it greater armor penetration capacity and better range of fire.

SS-D Minesweeper M 250 C 8

The same tank chassis underwent modifications to be adapted to the new gun: owing to its great size, the original turret was replaced with that of a Chi-He medium tank. Finally, 930 units of the Chi-Ha were produced between 1942 and

Armor:

1943.

1 25 2 15 3 15

Thanks to the 47 mm gun, the Chi-Ha could successfully confront light tanks such as the Stuart. However, its limited armor (caused partly by the lack of steel, used mainly

G 2x Type 99

for the construction of warships), made it inefficient against heavier tanks like the

Constructed on the chassis of a medium tank,

United States Sherman.

the SS-D was a sapper vehicle capable of digging up mines in its path. Armed with two machine guns and five flamethrowers that pointed towards the corners and front, this vehicle gave a new meaning to the concept of "firepower". Unfortunately, its armor was not enough for it to cross enemy infantry lines and deploy its weapons efficiently.

Inventory:

75x

Inventory:

45x

5x

2.440x

1x

1.710x

1x

1x

26

Japanese Imperial Army: Tank destroyer

Combat guide

27

Tank destroyer Ho-Ri 2 Heavy tank destroyer M 1900 C 48

Ho-Ni 1 Light tank destroyer M 350 C 21 Main:

Ho-Ni 1 The Ho-Ni 1 was the Japanese response to modern United States tanks deployed in the Pacific war, against which the main Imperial battle tank, the Chi-Ha, could not compete in armament. 124 units of the model Type 1 Ho-Ni 1 were manufactured, based on the Chi-Ha chassis and equipped with a high velocity 75 mm gun mounted on the open-top armored roof.

V 26

D 3 S 6

L 75 mm R 5.5 A 130 m

AP:

107

102

93



10

30

70

71

Main:

D 4 S 4

L 105 mm R 12 A 150 m

AP:

223



10

Secondary:

130 m

V 20

208 30

177

116

70

L 37 mm R 3

Armor:

AP:

52

48

38

1 25 2 25 3 7 4 10 5 10 6 10



10

30

70

150 m

A 110 m 28 110 m

Armor:

1 180 2 75 3 60

The front armor was not sufficient to

G 1x Type 1

withstand the impact from any anti-tank weapon and the weapon's armor-plated

The Ho-Ri was a conceptual design of an

covers did not protect heavy machine guns,

experimental Type 5 Chi-Ri heavy tank. There were no prototypes or documents which

therefore the vehicle was very vulnerable to

indicated that its production was being planned, but it had to be armed with a powerful

enemy fire.

105 mm high velocity gun, as well as a secondary 37 mm gun belonging to the original

However, the main weapon could be used successfully against any enemy medium

design.

tank, such as the United States Sherman (with the

Clearly inspired by the large German Jagdtiger and Elefant tank destroyers, the front armor

exception of the Jumbo series), the Soviet T-34s

of the Ho-Ri was reinforced to 180 mm, which gave it superior protection against any allied

or the British Cromwell and Comet.

tank destroyer, while the 105 mm gun, although slower and with a lower range than the one designed for the Chi-Ri, had a far superior capacity for penetration and causing damage. There were two variants of the original design, the Ho-Ri 1 and the Ho-Ri 2, differing from each other mainly in the layout of their armament and engine. The Ho-Ri 2 was similar to the Chi-Ri, with the armament located at the front part and the engine in the rear part of the hull. The front machine gun and 37 mm gun provided a good defense against light vehicles and infantry. As it shared the hull design of the Chi-Ri, the lack of inclination of the front part of the plate, where the secondary 37 mm gun was mounted, was a weak point. As it did not have a turret, all its combat effectiveness was lost if it became immobilized, so that trying to get cover in the flanks and tracks was vital for the Ho-Ri's survival.

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Japanese Imperial Army: Tank destroyer

223

208



10

30

Secondary: AP:

V 20

D 4 S 4

Ho-Ni 2 Self-propelled howitzer M 750 C 11

L 105 mm R 12 A 150 m

AP:

177

116

70

L 37 mm R 3

52

48

38

10

30

70

29

Artillería autopropulsada

Ho-Ri 1 Heavy tank destroyer M 10 C 48 Main:

Combat guide

Main:

150 m

L 105 mm R 70 A 220 m

Armor:

A 110 m

1 25 2 25 3 7 4 10 5 10 6 10

28 110 m

Armor:

1 150 2 100 3 60

As with the light Ho-Ni 1 tank destroyers,

G 1x Type 1

to infantry units. With the aim of improving

the Ho-Ni 2 was designed to give support these performances, a 105 mm howitzer was

The Ho-Ri 1 was a variation of the Chi-Ri

added that fired explosive projectiles and

heavy tank. In contrast to the modified Ho-Ri

provided a perfect complement to the Ho-Ni

2 model, the armament was mounted on the

1. In spite of its notable efficiency in combat,

rear part of the vehicle, while the engine was

only 54 units were manufactured.

in the mid point (a similar distribution to that of the German Elefant).

The vehicle was rapid and reliable; the weapon had good accuracy in spite of the large distance it could fire, comparable to other similar caliber field artillery. However, its limited

It kept the main 105 mm weapon and the secondary 37 mm weapon, as well

armor did not protect it from enemy artillery fire nor from small caliber anti-tank weapons.

as the auxiliary machine gun mounted on the hull. The side protection of the vehicle was reinforced: whereas, after keeping the same weight and speed, the front armor was less thick. In other aspects, this model was practically identical to the Ho-Ri 2.

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Japanese Imperial Army: Artillería autopropulsada Ho-Ro Self-propelled howitzer M 1000 C 11 Main:

V 30

L 150 mm R 75 A 250 m

Main: Armor:

1 25 2 25 3 7 4 10 5 10 6 10

1 15 2 8 3 8

by the Imperial Army in the Battle of the Philippines. The remaining units were sent to

due to its tonnage and average weight, but it was capable of firing 170 kg projectiles to considerable distances.

reloading, like the German Sturmtiger. Its reload time was extremely long, double that

in number by the United Sates artillery.

of the majority of artillery batteries, but the destructive capacity of the 300 mm projectile was devastating, and could even destroy the heaviest tanks. Due to its limited speed and armor, it was very vulnerable to return fire from enemy artillery.

Inventory:

close quarters combat. However, operating from the rearguard lines, the Ho-Ro could efficiently bombard defensive and

10x

entrenched positions.

1x

Isuzu mortar Self-propelled mortar M 1 C 7.5 Main:

L 90 mm R 5

AP:

15

15

15



10

30

70

A 110 m 15 110 m

The Japanese army used the Isuzu gun as a base for different armed vehicles, among which was this mortar transport. Provided with an armament equivalent to that used by the infantry troops, the lorry provided the mortar with great mobility. However, on increasing its profile, camouflaging the weapon became difficult, increasing its vulnerability when firing.

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mortar could not be raised more than 50 degrees

Contrary to other artillery vehicles, the Ha-To fired one single massive projectile before

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V 30

as a mobile armament platform. Its heavy 300 mm

Battle of Okinawa, where they were exceeded

caliber and the open cab that housed the crew did not provide sufficient protection in

D 5 S -

Designed in 1943, the Ha-To was manufactured

the islands to defend national territory in the

The armor, inherited from the Chi-Ha, was not sufficient to resist attack from guns of any

V 20

L 300 mm R 150 A 180 m

Armor:

vehicles, and this was how it was deployed

The designers of the HoRo were inspired by the German self-propelled artillery for mounting a 150 mm howitzer on the Chi-Ha medium tank chassis. Nevertheless, due to difficulties when producing units on a large scale, only 25 vehicles were manufactured.

31 Ha-To Self-propelled howitzer M 1300 C 27.5

D 3 S 6

The Ho-Ro generally operated in units of four

Ho-Ro

Combat guide

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32

Japanese Imperial Army: Tanks

Combat guide

Tanks

Ho-I Medium tank M 360 C 23

Chi-He Medium tank M 300 C 23 Main: AP:

88

L 57 mm R 4.5 A 130 m 84 72 36



10

30

70

V 34

D 4 S 4

Main:

L 75 mm R 130 A 130 m

Armor:

1 50 2 30 3 20 4 60 5 30 6 30

130 m

Armor:

G 1x Type 1

1 50 2 30 3 8 4 50 5 45 6 12 G 1x Type 99

33

Modification of the Chi-He tank designed to attack anti-tank defensive positions and fortifications against which the high velocity

G 1x Type 1

57 mm guns were ineffective.

The medium Chi-He tank was designed

On the Chi-He chassis, the Ho-I mounted a

before Japan entered the Second World War,

large turret armed with a 75 mm low velocity

but its mass production did not begin until 1943 because, until then, quality steel was used first and foremost for the construction of warships. At the end of 1944, the number of units manufactured reached 170, which were sent to different parts of Japanese territory as defense against a possible allied invasion, which never happened. In fact, this armored tank never went into combat. In any case, the Japanese Army's objective was to have a tank capable of confronting the new generation of United States tanks. Compared with the previous models, the Type 1 ChiHe had heavier armor, a more powerful engine and a high velocity 57 mm gun with high

howitzer, which provided extraordinary firepower by firing explosive projectiles in parabolic trajectories. Like other self-propelled howitzers, the Ho-I could take advantage of unevenness in the ground and low obstacles in order to bombard static defenses without exposing itself to enemy fire. Its armor was slightly reinforced on the weakest plates: on those which protected the rear part and the upper covers. However, the size of the 75 mm howitzer forced the removal of the rear machine gun that was characteristic of the Chi-Ha and Chi-He models.

penetration capacity. Slightly longer and higher than the Chi-Ha, its profile was very low compared with United States and British tanks (except the Crusader). This was a rapid tank, with an acceptable armor for the initial stages of combat and a main gun which could destroy light vehicles and medium tanks. It only had two machine guns, one of which was mounted on the rear part of the turret, which restricted its defense capability against enemy infantry. For this reason it is recommended to keep the tank away from the front line of battle.

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34

Japanese Imperial Army: Tanks Chi-Nu Medium tank M 400 C 23 Main:

Chi-Nu Although the Chi-He was designed to confront the United States M4 Sherman, the Imperial Army needed a better tank that could exceed the firepower of its rivals on the battlefield. At the start of 1943, the Type 4 Chi-To was already being developed, but delays in the programme forced the creation of an intermediate tank with existing components. And so it was that the Type 3 Chi-Nu was born, the design of which commenced in May 1943 and was finalized six months later. However, its production was not considered a priority and it was delayed until 1944.

V 34

107

102

93



10

30

70

Main:

71 130 m

35 Chi-To Medium tank M 950 C 40

D 4 S 4

L 75 mm R 5.5 A 130 m

AP:

Combat guide

L 75 mm R 6

AP:

146

138



10

30

V 32

D 5 S 4

A 150 m

124

84

70

150 m

Armor:

Armor:

1 50 2 30 3 20 4 50 5 30 6 30

1 75 2 50 3 35 4 75 5 50 6 50

G 1x Type 1

G 1x Type 99

The Chi-Nu was the last tank supplied by

In 1944, the design of the Type 4 Chi-To was

the Imperial Army until the end of the war.

completed, in which technicians and German

Between 1944 and 1945, 166 units were

war veterans participated in order to try to equal the performance of the modern German

manufactured that were assigned to the

tanks. That same year, the first prototype was built, with its mass production predicted

defense of national territory.

for 1945, but the abrupt end of the war paralyzed the project with just two tanks

G 1x Type 1

manufactured and another four hulls built.

Based on the chassis of the Chi-He, it had a new hexagonal turret, larger and with the armor better

Although the hull of the Chi-To, with its slightly inclined armored plates, had the same

distributed, which housed a large 75 mm

profile as its predecessors, the thickness was increased up to 75 mm on the front. The

anti-tank gun, one of the largest

hexagonal turret, larger, higher and with reinforced armor, housed a large high velocity

weapons fitted to a Japanese

75 mm anti-aircraft gun with a range and penetration capacity far superior to weapons

tank during the Second World

mounted in previous tanks. Following the German school of thought, a machine gun was

War.

mounted on the commander's cupola, increasing the vehicle's defense against infantry attacks.

In terms of the performance, the Chi-Nu was identical to the Chi-He, except for the gun,

The Chi-To was an excellent medium tank, far superior in firepower and armor than the Soviet T-34 or the more advanced version of the

which provided greater penetration capacity and

United States Sherman, equipped with 85 mm and 76 mm anti-tank weapons. Its main weapon provided similar performance to the

fired a more powerful explosive projectile, although the effective range of the weapon was

Soviet IS-1 or the United States M26 Pershing and, although it was not capable of penetrating the front armor of the British Churchill,

the same. The large size of the projectiles reduced the quantity of ammunition that the tank

its increased mobility gave it advantages in combat. As in nearly all Japanese tanks, the armor of the Chi-To was not prepared to

could carry. Furthermore, the Chi-Nu saw the final disappearance of the rear machine gun

withstand much punishment, not even head-on, which made it advisable to use it to fire surprise shots and retreat undercover without

from Japanese tank designs.

giving away its position and avoiding the enemy counterattack.

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Japanese Imperial Army: Tanks

AP:

181

L 88 mm R 8 173 158



10

30

Secondary:

70

L 37 mm R 3

AP:

52

48

38



10

30

70

V 30

A 160 m 97 160 m

A 110 m 28 110 m

Armor:

Chi-Ri The Chi-Ri was one of the last tank models developed by Japan during the Second World War. However, the scarcity of raw materials and the deterioration that the allied bombings had caused to Japanese industrial infrastructures grounded the project. The only incomplete prototype built was captured by United States troops after the Japanese surrender.

1 100 2 75 3 50 4 100 5 75 6 50 G 2x Type 99

37

Designed as a larger and better armored

Chi-Ri Heavy tank M 1500 C 50 Main:

Combat guide

D 5 S 4

The upper part of the turret housed a machine gun operated by the commander. An additional machine gun occupied the left flank of the turret for defense against enemy infantry.

version of the Chi-To, it had a 550 HP Kawasaki engine that had to give it acceptable mobility in spite of its 100 mm thick armor on its front part. What is certain is that if the Chi-Ri had entered combat it would have more than overcome the United States Shermans and Soviet T-34s. Although its main gun did not have as much range as the heavier antitank weapons mounted on the Tiger II and the IS-3, its secondary gun was excellent for attacking light vehicles or infantry

G 1x Type 1

defensive positions and anti-tank guns. The front armor, equivalent to that of the majority of heavy tanks from other nations, had sufficient side protection to resist impacts from medium caliber guns. However, the plate with no inclination, over which the secondary 37 mm gun was mounted, was a weak point which could be exploited by any weapon with the capacity to penetrate 100 mm of steel. In fact, a projectile that penetrated this area would probably cause a huge explosion in the

According to design documents, the Chi-Ri was going to be armed with an 88 mm anti-aircraft gun, which provided it with superior firepower to any United States tank and equivalent to the heavy Soviet IS-2s and IS-3s, although with less effective range.

inside of the tank.

The tank armament was completed with a machine gun installed on the front of the hull, along with a secondary 37 mm gun prepared for firing explosive and penetrating projectiles.

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Japanese Imperial Army: Tanks Chi-Ha 120 Light tank M 6 C 50

Main:

L 120 mm R 25

V 27

D 5 S 4

Combat guide

Transport and logistics

A 180

Armor:

1 25 2 20 3 20 4 25 5 25 6 25 G 1x Type 99

39

Type 97 Motorcycle M 60 C 5

V 45

D 2 S 1

Ho-Ha Armored half track M 125 C 10

V 35

D 4 S 6 Y

G 1x Type 99

G 1x Type 1

In the final months of the Second World War, the Imperial Japanese Navy carried out experimental modifications to the Chi-Ha tanks, fitting them with a short, 120 mm naval gun. A reduced number of tanks were transferred and assigned to the special landing forces, although their mass production was not even considered.

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Despite being a tank with reduced dimensions and lightly armored, the modified Chi-Ha had considerable firepower. Its 120 mm gun could fire explosive howitzer shells to large distances, competing with enemy artillery. Although it was incapable of penetrating armor, the parabolic trajectory and extraordinary accuracy of its shots meant that it could punish fixed enemy anti-tank defenses. The armor of these vehicles barely protected the low caliber weapons and anti-tank rifles, therefore they always had to operate far from enemy lines.

Armor:

1 15 2 15 3 15 G 1x Type 99 This half track was developed in 1941 and was used by the naval forces to transport troops and tow artillery guns. It stands out from similar vehicles used by other nations thanks to the three machine guns with which it was armed, one on the front and another on each side, which gave the Ho-Ha superior firepower.

On requesting this unit during the battle, two Chi-Ha 120 tanks are deployed.

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Japanese Imperial Army: Transport and logistics Isuzu (transport) Supply truck M 50 C 5

V 36

D 2 S 10 Y

Combat guide

41

Special attacks ¡Banzai! M 4 C 72

Transported ammunition and supplies for the infantry troops.

a

Deploys assault troops embarked in light tanks and takes advantage of the combination of firepower and mobility in order to rapidly get close to the enemy and attack its weak points.

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During the Historic Battles, this option orders the attack on several Ha-Go light tanks supported by infantry. These forces will attack the

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enemy independently, clearing the way for your troops. In other game modes, two squads of paratroopers will be deployed and two Chi-Ha 47 tanks as support against infantry and enemy vehicles. The paratroopers carry antipersonnel mines to secure the terrain conquered by the tanks.

Isuzu (supplies) Supply truck M 150 C 5

V 36

D 2 S - Y

Transported supplies for the infantry, as well as ammunition for all types of gun and large weapons used by the Imperial Army. It also carried additional Jerry cans of fuel.

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Ammunition for all types of weapon and gun used by the Japanese Army. Isuzu (engineers) Supply truck M 250 C 5

elements, as well as mines and spare fuel.

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V 34

Transported supplies for the installation of defensive

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