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Development and design
OTO Melara pursued a different approach from small-caliber SPAAGs by adapting its high-rate 76 mm gun technology to a land turret with search and tracking radar. Demonstrators used a heavy tracked chassis including the OF-40 automotive base. 1, 2
Operational use
The system was extensively promoted but did not enter series service. Cost, weight, changing missile technology, and competition from less ambitious systems limited its prospects. 1, 2
Role and significance
OTOMATIC remains historically significant because it explored the outer practical limit of gun-based armored air defense: a large-caliber weapon intended to reach targets normally left to missiles. 1, 2
Sources and further reading
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