Is It Possible for a Tank to Fire its Shells in Full Auto?

The age-old question of whether a tank can fire its shells in full automatic mode has puzzled many. With autoloader-equipped tanks capable of firing around 8 rounds per minute, one might wonder if this qualifies as full auto. However, the answer lies in the specifics of the question and the various nuances of modern tanks and their capabilities.

Tank Definition and Characteristics

A tank is defined as an armored military vehicle designed to support troops in front-line combat. Typically, it utilizes a turret and tracks. Despite this general definition, the specifics of what constitutes a tank have evolved over time. Modern tanks, like the Panzer 2 and Bradley, adhere to a more specific role and set of characteristics. The Panzer 2, being a smaller, lighter, and more specialized tank, is classified differently from the Bradley, which is designed as a more versatile fighting vehicle.

IMFs, AFVs, and NATO Standards

Infantry Mobility Vehicles (IFVs) do not typically have the type of cannons we associate with tanks. For instance, the Marder 2 has a 50mm cannon, which is insufficient when compared to the 120mm main guns found in modern tanks. Even the higher RPMs of smaller cannons in IFVs, while technically automatic, do not provide the necessary size and impact for battlefield operations. Modern tanks are designed to emit a more significant and consistent rate of fire, often exceeding 12 rounds per minute.

Full Automatic Armament

The term "full automatic" refers to weapons that fire continuously as long as the trigger is pulled, which is primarily associated with machine guns and smaller calibers. Modern tanks often have auto-loaders that can partially automate the process, but this does not necessarily equate to a full automatic rate of fire. The introduction of auto-loaders in tanks, such as those found in Soviet and NATO designs, has improved efficiency but does not meet the criteria for a full automatic rate of fire in larger caliber weapons.

The Otomatic Turret

Enter the Otomatic turret, an Italian innovation placed on the OF-40, an Italian Leopard 1 variant. This turret is equipped with a 75mm cannon capable of firing at a rate of either 85 or 120 rounds per minute. The Otomatic turret is uniquely designed to handle both anti-vehicle and anti-aircraft projects, making it a versatile piece of equipment. While the Otomatic turret operates at a rate of fire akin to many naval guns, it still falls short of the full automatic standard associated with machine guns and smaller calibers.

Classifying Modern Armament

The Otomatic turret raises questions about how we classify modern armor systems. Its ability to shoot both at planes and tanks makes it a dual-purpose weapon, blurring the lines between anti-aircraft artillery and armor. However, in essence, it is still a tank, albeit with a turret and tracks designed to support troops. The term "fully automatic" in the context of tank armament is more about the rate of fire and the weapon's capabilities rather than a binary distinction.

The Role of Non-Full Automatic Weapons

While the Otomatic turret and similar systems offer impressive capabilities, many modern tanks with full automatic features are naval guns like the 76mm and 127mm types. These naval guns, while technically automatic, do not fit within the traditional definition of a tank's main armament. The rate of fire with these guns is generally slower, around 12 rounds per minute, and is more about the ability to quickly and effectively hit multiple targets rather than continuous fire.

Conclusion

The debate on full automatic gun fire in tanks comes down to precise definitions and capabilities. While modern tanks with auto-loaders are more efficient, they do not necessarily operate at a full automatic rate. The Otomatic turret offers a unique insight into the evolution of tank armament, combining layers of functionality and firepower. Whether a tank's firing rate can be considered full automatic remains a subject of ongoing discussion, with the key takeaway being that the capability and context of the weapon are crucial factors.