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Vietnam Enhances Its Short-Range Air Defense with Soviet-Era Chinese 37mm Anti-Aircraft Gun.
The Chinese 61K (M1939) 37/Type 55 mm anti-aircraft gun, currently showcased at the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024, is a versatile weapon system designed to neutralize both aerial and ground targets. It stands out as one of the anti-aircraft systems presented at the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024. This event, held from December 19 to 22 at Gia Lâm Airport in Hanoi, brings together delegations from 50 countries and nearly 200 defense companies, highlighting the latest technological advancements in the military domain.
Chinese 61K (M1939) 37 mm anti-aircraft gun (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)
Developed and manufactured in China, this gun is specifically designed to destroy aerial targets at altitudes of up to 3,000 meters, while also being capable of engaging ground and maritime targets. With a firing rate of 160 to 180 rounds per minute and an initial projectile velocity of 880 to 900 meters per second, it offers a maximum range of 8,500 meters at a 45-degree angle. Its rapid deployment capability is a notable feature, with the system being operational within just 25 seconds.
Organized by the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense, the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024 aims to strengthen international cooperation in the defense sector and showcase technological innovations in this field. Spanning over 100,000 square meters, the exhibition features product displays, live demonstrations, and technological presentations, attracting thousands of visitors.
The presence of the Chinese 37 mm anti-aircraft gun at the exhibition underscores the strategic cooperation between China and Vietnam. This weapon system has garnered interest from experts and international delegations, offering a unique opportunity to evaluate its potential in various operational contexts.
The 37 mm anti-aircraft gun, known under different variants worldwide, is based on an initial concept developed by the Soviets in the late 1930s. This system, designated as the 61-K (M1939), was designed to meet the need for effective armament against low-flying aircraft. Mass-produced during World War II, it was extensively used by the Red Army to defend strategic targets against Axis air attacks.
The 61-K (M1939) was partially inspired by the Swedish Bofors 40 mm anti-aircraft gun but reduced to a 37 mm caliber to better align with the USSR's industrial capabilities and operational needs. The system employed a semi-automatic configuration, firing high-velocity ammunition and capable of engaging aerial targets at altitudes of up to 3,000 meters.
Equipped with a high firing rate (up to 160 rounds per minute) and mechanical simplicity, this gun proved to be a valuable tool not only against aircraft but also against ground targets, such as light armored vehicles.
The Chinese-manufactured 37 mm anti-aircraft gun has been widely exported to various countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, often used in paramilitary contexts or for the defense of military bases and strategic infrastructure.
In Africa, countries like Cameroon have received units of this system, enhancing their air defense capabilities. Similarly, Tanzania has integrated these guns into its military arsenal, reflecting Sino-Tanzanian military cooperation.
In Asia, Bangladesh acquired these anti-aircraft guns to modernize its armed forces. Sri Lanka has also benefited from this system, particularly to strengthen coastal defense and protect strategic infrastructure.
In the Middle East, countries such as Iran and Iraq have obtained these weapon systems, demonstrating the reach of Chinese military exports in the region.
These exports, spanning several decades, reflect China's strategy to strengthen its diplomatic and military ties with these nations while extending its geopolitical influence through the provision of military equipment tailored to the specific needs of each country.