The Type 98 So-Da (九八式装甲運搬車 ソダ) was an armored personnel and ammunition carrier used by the Imperial Japanese Army in World War II.

History and development

Type 98 So-Da was designed in 1937, with a chassis based on the Type 97 Te-Ke tankette. However, its engine compartment was moved to the front of the chassis. The fully tracked vehicle was first produced in 1941. The Type 98 So-Da was used as a personnel and ammunition carrier in forward-line areas. In addition, it was also used as an "artillery tractor" to tow a gun trailer. Its hull had an open top and the "flatbed" in back had a double door at the rear. The flatbed could be covered with a tarp over the three rail supports. The towing coupling was secured to the frame of the hull on a "semi-elliptical spring". This protected the frame while hauling heavy equipment The total number of Type 98 So-Da vehicles produced is unknown.