M50 S.P.A.T. (Self Propelled Anti-Tank)

A lightweight at only eight-and-a-half tons (8.641 tons), this vehicle is perhaps a little known anti-tank SP.

M50 - ONTOS from the Greek = 'The Thing'

Initiated in 1952, this 'Light Armored Vehicle' project carried Six M40A1C 106mm recoilless rifles. The US Marine Corps restructured with a need for more mobility. Each Divisional tank battalion was to have 45 each. With about a 15-year service period to come, 1955 saw the first production vehicle into service with the USMC (and Airborne?). The first went into service in 1956.

Widely used in 'Nam. They were deployed as fire support for Marine Amphibious Assault. The only problem in operations was that the loader had to climb out onto the outside to reload the weapon. It must have been quite precarious with snipers around!

Coupled with the relatively slow speed for a light vehicle of only 30 mph, perhaps the real reason behind its Marine Corps demise was that it was NOT amphibious and only eighteen rounds were carried.

However it did see service in operations throughout 1966 and 1967, including with Company 'D' 16th Armor, 173rd Airborne Brigade.

Quantity produced = 240

Crew 3, driver, loader and commander/gunner

Engine GMC-302 petrol engine

Power 145hp at 3,400 rpm

Weight 8.641 tons

Speed 30 mph

Range 150 miles

Ammunition 18 rounds

Also see:

http//www.kithobbyist.com/AFVInteriors/ontos/ontos1.html

My Thanks to Capt Hill for his generous contribution.