In June 1937, the Waffenamt ordered a self-propelled version of the 60cm siege mortar to be built. General Karl Becker of the Artillery was heavily involved in its development, hence the sobriquet "Karl" used to describe it. The driving trials were held at Unterlass in May 1940, and delivery of six production vehicles occurred between November 1940 and August 1941. In February 1941, discussions were undertaken on ways to increase the weapon's range. In May 1942, 54cm barrels (Gerat 041) were ordered for the six production vehicles. At a conference with Hitler in March 1943, it was stated that the first 54cm Gerat 041 would be delivered by June 1943, a second in July, and a third by mid-August. The 60cm and 54cm barrels were designed to be interchangeable, based on the ammunition at hand and range of the target. In 1945, US forces captured vehicle No. II with a 60cm mortar, and vehicle No. V with a 54cm.

One of these 54cm siege mortars has been meticulously recreated in miniature by Dragon Armor. The 1:35 scale vehicle depicted in this release is named 'Thor', which was the fourth vehicle to be produced. Serving with the 2nd Batterie of the 833rd schwere Artillerie Abteilung on the Eastern Front, 'Thor' was eventually captured by the Soviets near the war's end. Fully assembled and pre-painted, 'Thor' constitutes an impressive model thanks to its sheer size and bulk. This Dragon Armor item is full of intricate detail, and it is presented in firing mode with the chassis lowered. The three-color camouflage scheme is particularly well done, lending the model a commanding presence. As a special bonus, a huge shell is included. This 'god of thunder' bespeaks massive destructive power, and it's ready for immediate display on any shelf big enough to take it! Sold Out!

Dimensions:
Width: 5-inches
Height: 6-1/2-inches
Length: 12-1/2-inches

Release Date: September 2008