Oka 2B1 self propelled mortar was designed by Artillery TsKB.34 Bureau in 1954, although the prototype was not ready until 1957, when it was publicly shown for the first time.The look of the vehicle is simply impressive from any angle, but as it happened with the 2A3 Kondensator self propelled howitzer, the logistical and mechanical problems made the vehicle practically useless.This vehicle weighed more than 55 tons and a measured around 26 meters in total length, measuring the mortar about 20 meters. These colossal dimensions made its transport really cumbersome.The whole Nuclear Artillery program was carried with total secrecy and the performances of 2B1 Oka always caused controversy, as with the 2A3 Kondensator program.2B1 Oka “nuclear mortar”, was part of the Soviet response to the US Army deployment in West Germany during 1953, including mobile artillery with nuclear warhead projectiles.The total number of Oka mortars is unknown, but at least a minimum of two are confirmed, as can be seen in this picture taken during a Military parade on the Red Square in Moscow.
