The Type 78 is a smoothbore recoilless gun designed to provide a rapid, direct fire support for the PLA infantry troops against targets such as light tanks, armoured vehicles, and bunkers. The Type 78 is an improved version of the Type 65 with some modifications. Type 78 has been equipped by the PLA Ground Forces in significant numbers and are still serving with some class-B units and reserve forces today. The Type 78 is being replaced by the more capable Type 98.