The Type 87 (6 x 6) reconnaissance and patrol vehicle was developed by Komatsu Limited to meet the operational requirements of the Japanese Ground Self-Defence Force and uses the same automotive components as the Type 82 (6 x 6) command and communications vehicle covered in the following entry.

By 1999, it is estimated that the Japanese Ground

Self-Defence Force had taken delivery of at least 100 Komatsu Type 87 reconnaissance and patrol vehicles.

The Type 87 reconnaissance and patrol vehicle has a new redesigned steel hull of all-welded steel construction that provides protection from small arms fire and shell splinters.

The five-man crew of the vehicle consists of the driver, assistant driver/radio operator, commander, gunner and observer.

The driver sits at the front of the vehicle on the right and has a single-piece hatch cover that opens to the right with an integral periscope in the centre and three fixed forward-facing periscopes. A passive night driving device can replace one of the centre day periscopes.

The assistant driver/radio operator is to the left of the driver and has a single-piece hatch cover that opens to the left with a single forward-facing periscope.

The two-man power-operated turret has been designed and built by Komatsu Limited and is in the centre of the hull slightly forward of the second axle.

The gunner is seated on the left with a single-piece circular hatch cover that opens to the rear. Forward of this is a day/night sight and to the left is a single observation periscope.

The commander is seated on the right of the turret and has a single-piece circular hatch cover that opens to the rear, roof-mounted sight and six observation periscopes. Mounted on the turret rear is a stowage box.

Main armament comprises an Oerlikon Contraves 25 mm KBA cannon with a 7.62 mm machine gun mounted coaxially to the right. Mounted either side of the turret is a bank of four forward-firing electrically operated smoke grenade dischargers. The 25 mm cannon is manufactured under licence by Nippon Seiko Jyo (Japan Steel Works).

The engine compartment is at the rear of the hull on the right with the air inlet/outlet louvres in the roof and the exhaust outlet on the right side of the hull at the rear.

There is an aisle for the observer on the left and he is provided with a single rearward-facing periscope or observation purposes. A small door is provided in the rear of the hull on the left side and this opens to the left.

In the left side of the hull between the second and third axles is an entry door that opens forward, this being provided with a single observation block. A similar door is provided in the right side of the hull that also opens forwards.

Standard equipment includes power steering and passive night vision equipment. The Type 87 does not have an NBC system and is not amphibious.

Production. In serivce with the Japanese Ground Self-Defence Force. This vehicle has not been offered in the export market.