Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:50:46-3:52:09

There is no single best modern naval gun

The 76 mm OTO Melara wins for versatility, while 4.5- and 5-inch weapons remain preferable as true main guns.

5-inch GunsNaval GunsOTO Melara 76 mmWarship Design
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Question

What is the best modern naval gun?

Short answer

For versatility, the 76 mm OTO Melara; for a ship's main gun, a 4.5- or 5-inch system is more appropriate.

Notes

Gun quality depends on the assigned mission rather than a universal ranking. The OTO Melara 76 mm is favored as a flexible all-round system with a wide variety of ammunition and defensive uses. For the main-gun role, however, the panel prefers the greater effect of a 4.5- or 5-inch weapon. The distinction is between adaptable medium-calibre utility and the range and payload expected from a principal naval gun.