Comparing: Type 97 Te-Ke vs. M2 Light Tank

The Te-Ke was developed by Tokyo Gasu Denki to replace the outdated Type 94 light tank. Manufactured from 1937 through 1942. The vehicle was used for reconnaissance, communication, patrol duty, and infantry support. Served as an armored tractor. A total of about 600 vehicles were manufactured.

Development of the vehicle based on the M2A3 model was started in December 1938. The tank featured a new two-man turret with more powerful armament. A total of 365 vehicles were manufactured from May 1940 through March 1941. In April 1942, ten additional tanks were produced for training purposes. Some vehicles were supplied to the U.K. under Lend-Lease, others were deployed with the U.S. Marine Corps and saw combat in the Pacific Theater.