Norinco investigation results are out!
Several issues and all of them related to improper handling by the tank crew —
1) improper maintenance of tank barrel.
2) partial blockage of tank barrel (Otter’s theory that there are dirt and debris inside is correct).
3) improper storage of tank shells.
Furthermore, Norinco emphasizes that the gun barrel is manufactured under the same quality standards as those provided to the PLA. They did not find any quality control or material related issues during the investigation.