The Type 89 is a late Cold War era assault rifle of Japanese origin. It was developed as a cheaper and lighter alternative to the Type 64 battle rifle. The mild recoil of the 5.56mm round suits Japanese posture and allows for more ammunition to be carried.

The design of the Type 89 is based on the Armalite AR-18, but differs in many areas. It is a gas operated weapon with a rotating bolt. The Type 89 is made out of stamped steel an featues a polymer pistol grip, forearm and buttstock. The Type 89 is NATO compatible, firing the 5.56mm round and using STANAG magazines. Japanese magazines feature hole to indicate the amount of ammunition that is left.

The Type 89 fires the 5.56x45mm NATO round from 30 round magazines. The trigger group features both a 3 round burst and full automatic setting. The rate of fire is about 750 rpm. Accuracy is reported to be good and maximum effective range is given as 400 meters. The Type 89 is also able to fire the Type 06 rifle grenade. An under barrel grenade launcher cannot be fitted.

The Type 89 is the standard issue assault rifle in Japanese service. It has replaced the older Type 64 battle rifle in frontline units. Small number are in use with selected law enforcement units. The Type 89 has not been exported in line with the strict Japanese laws on the export of military equipment.