used to manually aim the gun is usually protected by a steel cover. Versions Over the years, the 100 mm turret went through several improvements, notably bringing more reliable operation and increased firing rate, new ammunition optimized to shoot down missiles, and compatibility with modern firing computers. Four main versions of French 100mm guns can be cited: Modèle 53: the first shell had to be fed manually, with subsequent shots taking advantage of recoil to load automatically, firing at up to 60 rounds per minute. Employs electro-mechanical fire control, with two manual command stations on the front of the turret. Modèle 64 is a direct offspring of the 53, with a 78 round/min rate of fire. This version can be connected to modern firing computers. Modèle 68 In this model, the turret was lightened and can load the first round automatically, but rate of fire is reduced back to 60 rounds per minute. This version may operate with automatic action and control with only one manual station remaining as a backup. This version was later improved to the CADAM standard (Cadence Améliorée, "improved rate of fire"), restoring the 78 rounds/min rate of fire. A derivative is the modèle 100 TR (used on thes), mechanically similar to the 68, but with a stealth armour. The manual control has been removed. Compact: This weapon has only been exported to China (see also China's Type 210 100 mm naval gun), Malaysia, Portugal and Saudi Arabia. It is even lighter than the modèle 68, at only 19 metric tons including gunhouse (14 metric ton alone), deck and magazine. Later Mk 2 versions also fire faster, at up to 90 rounds per minute. However, it is also limited to firing short bursts of no more than 6 rounds. Usage The 100 mm gun has been used in the French navy on most warships equal or greater than avisos (the A69 especially, built and exported in 20 units). The aircraft carrier , with her MBDA Aster-only defence, is the main exception. Also, Horizon CNGF frigates are equipped with the 76 mm Oto-Melara gun. The 100 mm has been sold abroad, and is used by the navies of Argentina, Belgium, China, Portugal, Turkey, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria & Germany (mounted on s and s; both classes are now retired), and others. Belgian s equipped with the system were sold to Bulgaria in 2004-2008. Gallery See also Weapons