Type 67 mortar

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	Weapon: Type 67 mortar Type: Mortar Country of Origin: China Year Adopted: 1967 Overall Length (mm): 1200.0 Overall Length (in): 47.24 Weight (kg): 35.00 Weight (pounds): 77.16

The Chinese Type 67 is an 82 mm smoothbore, muzzle-loaded infantry mortar introduced in 1967 as a refinement of earlier Soviet-based designs. It was intended to replace older models such as the Type 53, which was a direct copy of the Soviet PM-41. The Type 67 features a lighter construction, improved bipod stability, and simplified sighting equipment, allowing for faster deployment and more accurate fire. Its design retained the ruggedness and reliability needed for use in a variety of terrains, from mountainous regions to open plains, while remaining portable enough to be carried and operated by small infantry crews.

Production of the Type 67 began in the late 1960s and continued for several decades, with thousands manufactured for the People's Liberation Army and for export to allied nations. The mortar proved to be relatively inexpensive to produce, which contributed to its widespread adoption both domestically and abroad. Variants and locally modified versions have appeared in several countries, often incorporating small changes to suit local manufacturing capabilities or tactical preferences.

The Type 67 saw extensive service in China's border conflicts during the late 20th century, including the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese War, where it was employed for indirect fire support in rugged terrain. Its notoriety stems from its blend of portability, reasonable firepower, and dependable operation in harsh conditions. Even as newer mortar models have entered service, the Type 67 remains in use with reserve units and in some foreign militaries, a testament to its enduring utility and the robust design philosophy behind it.