![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_01.jpg)
The Motomitragliatrice blindata d’assaulto (MIAS) was a prototype designed by the Italian firm Ansaldo in 1935. Optimistically described as a tankette by some, it is perhaps more accurate to call it a mobile machine gun position.
![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_02.jpg?w=748)
The MIAS was armed with twin Isotta-Fraschini “Scotti” 6.5 mm machine guns provided with 1,000 rounds of ammunition. The gunner was protected against rifle fire by an armored shield providing cover from the front and sides.
![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_03.jpg?w=728)
The rear and underside were unprotected. The vehicle was powered by a 5 hp Frera motorcycle engine which propelled the MIAS at a blistering pace of 3 mph forward and half that in reverse.
![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_04.jpg?w=1024)
The MORAS was identical but was fitted with a 45 mm Brixia mortar with 50 rounds in place of the machine guns.
![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_05.jpg?w=1024)
The MORAS with the mortar at full elevation. The vehicle was provided with a full set of pioneer tools.
![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_06.jpg?w=1024)
The diminutive size of the design is apparent, even if its tactical utility is not.
![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_07.jpg)
The operator was provided with a hinged shield which could be raised to provide some additional protection when advancing. While there was some protection from the front, the vulnerability to flanking or indirect fire is obvious.
![](https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ansaldo_08.jpg?w=740)
Perhaps this is what the designers intended, the gunner is crouched behind his guns within the armored shield. The tactical applications for the MIAS / MORAS were limited and the design was not put into production.