flames of war type 89 chi ro tank platoon jbx11Some tank regiments are equipped with the older Type 89 medium tank. Production of the Type 89 began in 1931, and it served as Japans primary battle tank during the 1930s. The Type 89 used an air cooled diesel engine and mounted a low velocity 57mm gun, but its armour was thin. In addition to its use in the invasion of the Philippines, the Type 89 continued to be fielded in China, Malaya, and Burma. The type was gradually withdrawn starting in 1942,