Oto Melara defense systems

Oto Melara is a historic Italian defense company with a legacy dating back to the early 20th century. Originally founded as a joint venture involving Vickers and Terni, it became a cornerstone of Italian naval and land defense manufacturing, particularly famous for its 76mm naval gun and the Ariete main battle tank.

Today, the brand operates as a key component of one of Europe's largest aerospace and defense conglomerates. While its origins lie in La Spezia, Italy, the brand's reach is global, providing sophisticated weaponry to over 50 navies worldwide. The manufacturing remains primarily centered in Italy, maintaining high-precision engineering standards consistent with its military heritage.

Following a series of corporate restructurings within the Italian state-held industrial sector, Oto Melara was fully integrated into its current parent company. This ownership secures its position as a strategic national asset for Italy while participating in international defense coalitions.