SOFREP Pic of the Day: SC 70/90 Rifles of The 4th Fighter Wing of the Italian Air Force

Today, SOFREP’s Pic of the Day pays homage to the Italian military by looking at SC70/90 rifles and the 4th Fighter Wing “Amedeo d’Aosta” of the Italian Air Force. Why the Italian military? Before my great-great grandfather made his way through Ellis Island, he was a member of the Italian armed forces. It’s in my blood; I can’t help it. And besides, all things Italian are cool. That’s just the way it is.

A Little About The Fourth Fighter Wing

The 4th Fighter Wing (4º Stormo) of the Italian Air Force is one of the oldest and most prestigious units in Italy’s military aviation history. Established in 1931, the 4th Fighter Wing played a significant role in Italy’s defense, particularly during World War II, where its pilots were renowned for their skill and bravery. The wing initially flew Fiat CR.32 biplanes, later transitioning to the more advanced Macchi C.202 and C.205 fighters, giving the unit its reputation during the conflict. Post-war, the 4th Fighter Wing became a key player in the modernization of Italy’s Air Force, adapting to new aircraft and technologies over the decades.

Today, the 4th Fighter Wing is stationed at Grosseto Air Base and operates the Eurofighter Typhoon (see above), one of the world’s most advanced multi-role fighter jets. The unit is responsible for maintaining air defense readiness, participating in NATO operations, and protecting Italian airspace. It also trains new Italian fighter pilots, continuing the wing’s long tradition of excellence. The 4th Fighter Wing’s rearing horse emblem symbolizes the strength and agility of its pilots and aircraft, and it remains a source of pride for the Italian Air Force.

Let’s switch gears and look inside the Armory of the 4th Fighter Wing. In the Pic of the Day, we see a rack of SC70/90s.

SC70/90 Rifles: A Closer Look at Italy’s Trusted Assault Rifle

The SC70/90 rifle, manufactured by Beretta, has been the primary service weapon for the Italian military for decades. Part of the AR70/90 family, this rifle is a 5.56x45mm NATO chambered assault rifle designed to be reliable, versatile, and durable. Whether in the hands of the Italian Army, Carabinieri, or special forces units, the SC70/90 has proven its worth in various combat environments. This will examine this iconic rifle’s history, design, and capabilities, exploring why it remains a trusted tool in Italy’s military arsenal.

The Development of the SC70/90

The SC70/90 is a direct evolution of the earlier Beretta AR70/223, first introduced in the 1970s. The initial version was highly regarded, but it was clear that Italy’s armed forces needed a more advanced weapon for the future. The Italian Army sought a modern, NATO-standard weapon that could handle the rigors of the Cold War era and beyond. Beretta responded by upgrading the design and producing a rifle that could operate efficiently in various challenging environments. This led to the birth of the AR70/90 family, of which the SC70/90 is a part.

In case you were wondering, SC stands for Special Carbine. The version with the folding stock (see photo below) was often used by Alpine troops. There is also an SCP70/90 (Special Carbine Paratroopers) made for, you guessed it, airborne troops. It features a shorter barrel than the standard SC variant.

The SC70/90 was adopted by the Italian military in the late 1980s, marking a significant upgrade with improvements in ergonomics, reliability, and modularity. Over the years, the rifle has continued to evolve, with minor modifications to keep it relevant in a changing battlefield.

Technical Specifications

At its core, the SC70/90 is a gas-operated, selective-fire rifle built to deliver high accuracy and reliability. Here are some of the key specifications:

• Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
• Operating system: Gas-operated with a rotating bolt
• Rate of fire: 700 rounds per minute
• Magazine capacity: 30-round detachable box magazine
• Barrel length: 18.1 inches (460 mm)
• Weight: Approximately 4.1 kg (9 lbs) with a full magazine
• Effective range: 500 meters
• Stock: Foldable stock for improved portability
• Sights: Adjustable iron sights, with compatibility for optical sights and night vision systems

NATO-standardized, the rifle’s 5.56mm caliber ensures ammunition compatibility across allied forces, simplifying logistics during joint operations.

Design Features

The SC70/90 features a rugged design, built for durability in harsh conditions. Its polymer and steel construction ensures that the rifle can withstand extreme temperatures, dirt, and water, maintaining reliability over long periods of use. The rifle has a folding stock, allowing for easy maneuverability in close-quarter combat or during transport, a feature particularly useful for paratroopers and special operations forces.

The weapon is equipped with a gas piston system, making it less susceptible to fouling than direct gas impingement rifles. This design ensures that the rifle can continue operating even after extended firing without needing constant cleaning—crucial for soldiers in active combat scenarios.

Versatility and Customization

One of the SC70/90’s standout features is its modularity. The rifle’s design allows for easy attachment of various accessories, including optical sights, night vision scopes, grenade launchers, and tactical lights. These customization options make the rifle versatile enough to handle a variety of combat roles, from standard infantry use to specialized missions requiring enhanced accuracy and firepower.

The rifle’s bipod attachment and ability to mount a grenade launcher (such as the Beretta GLX-160) give it further flexibility on the battlefield. Additionally, the rifle can be fitted with suppressors for covert operations as needed. 

Performance in the Field

The SC70/90 has been used extensively by Italian forces in various global deployments. From peacekeeping missions to combat operations in the Middle East, the rifle has seen action in a wide range of environments. Its reputation for reliability is well-earned, with soldiers reporting that the rifle continues functioning even in extreme conditions, such as deserts, mountains, and jungles.

The SC70/90 is highly regarded because of its accuracy at medium ranges. With an effective range of 500 meters, it performs well in urban combat and open battlefields. The rifle’s manageable recoil and solid construction allow quick follow-up shots, making it effective in semi-automatic and fully automatic modes.

Comparisons to More Modern Rifles

When compared to more modern assault rifles, such as the HK416 or FN SCAR, the SC70/90 may seem dated in some aspects. Modern rifles tend to be lighter, more compact, and come with more advanced sighting systems out of the box. However, the SC70/90 is reliable and durable, making it a preferred choice for units that prioritize these characteristics over cutting-edge technology. Remember, the more complex a system is, the more likely it is to break down when you need it. 

The Italian military has considered upgrades to its rifle inventory, but the SC70/90 remains in service due to its proven track record and cost-effectiveness. Future developments may see further modernization of the platform, including lighter materials or more advanced optics integration.

Summing Up

The SC70/90 rifle has earned its place in Italy’s military history as a reliable, versatile, and robust weapon. Its longevity is a testament to Beretta’s design and the Italian military’s trust in the platform. While it may not have all the features of more recent rifles, its performance in the field and ability to withstand harsh conditions make it a valuable asset. As Italy updates its arsenal, the SC70/90 will likely continue to play a role in both standard infantry and specialized units for years to come.

For those interested in military firearms, the SC70/90 represents a bridge between the Cold War era and modern-day combat needs, blending time-tested reliability with the ability to adapt to new battlefield challenges.

—

Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.