The Type-16 was developed in 2008 to enhance the strength of the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force. The main requirements for the Type 16 were that combat quality should be on par with the old Type 74 main battle tank, while also improving maneuverability. One requirement when designing the Type-16 is that it must be light enough to be transported by existing and future military transport aircraft.The Type 16 was designed by Japanese MoD Technical Research and Development Institute for defense and tactical reconnaissance purposes, able to both assist infantry and destroy enemy armored vehicles. Production of the prototypes went to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and then to mass production. The Type-16 maneuver combat vehicle was first introduced in 2013 after six years of development.