M50 Ontos

The Ontos, officially the Rifle, Multiple 106 mm, Self-propelled, M50, was an American light armored tracked anti-tank vehicle developed in the 1950s. It mounted six M40 106 mm recoilless rifles as its main armament, which could be fired in rapid succession against single targets to guarantee a kill.

Originally conceived as a fast tank killer, it was employed by US Marines who consistently reported excellent results when used for direct fire support against infantry during the Vietnam War. Its mobility and firepower were proven in numerous battles and operations. Produced in limited numbers and largely expended towards the end of the conflict, the Ontos was removed from service in 1969.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• M50
• Ontos

[coastalsea]

@SgtMcCullin

Why were they discontinued? Small arms fire could penetrate the sides and rear of the Ontos. The loader had to exit the rear and reload while exposed to enemy fire. Yes, they were fun and the crews enjoyed driving and firing the Ontos, Against the VC they were somewhat effective, but against a modern army would have been very vulnerable

Roy Mark

USMC

First Anti-Tank Battalion

First Marine Division

1963 - 1965

[sgtmyers88]

With todays' modern technologies and an auto loader magazine system this would be the ultimate beast. The ultimate compact self propelled anti-tank weapons system. Err shall I say ultimate anti-everything system.

[SgtMcCullin]

Why they discontinued this beautiful machine?

[redreaper2020]

3 Ontos= 18 guns. 18 soviet tanks knocked out in the time took to reaim. epic.

[lst1195]

I read somewhere that it was popular with it's crews, the only thing they disliked was having to get out to reload it.