The word
Type followed by a number is a common way to name a weapon or product in a production series, similar in meaning to "
Mark". "Type" was used extensively by the Japanese and Chinese militaries beginning in the 1920s, and is still in current use by the militaries of both nations. The United Kingdom uses a
type number system for much of their military equipment. Many other nations use the word "Type" to designate products in a series.