Comparing: M48A2/T54E2/T123E6 vs. 121

A variant of the M48A2 tank with the T54E2 turret and 120-mm T123E6 gun. In 1958, the prototype underwent comparative trials aimed at choosing the armament for the new U.S. XM60 medium tank.

Development began in 1962 on a new medium tank based on the Type 59. The new tank was expected to feature improvements in firepower and armor protection. However, the project was canceled shortly after. Some technical innovations were applied later, in the development of the Type 69 tank. All 121 tank prototypes were destroyed during Chinese nuclear weapon testing.