M50 Ontos Armored Anti-tank Vehicle

The Ontos, officially the Rifle, Multiple 106 mm, Self-propelled, M50, was a light armored tracked anti-tank vehicle developed in the US 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 always considered an “ugly duckling” and was removed from service in 1969.