Oka (SS-23 Spider)

   The Oka short-range ballistic missile system (NATO designation SS-23 Spider) was named after the Oka river. It was developed by the Soviet Union in since the mid 70s and entered service in 1980. This missile system replaced the Elbrus (NATO designation Scud-B). The Spider had short operational life in the Soviet Army service, as it was eliminated by the INF Treaty in the late 80s. The SS-23 was exported to the former East Germany, Bulgaria and former Czechoslovakia. All surviving vehicles were scrapped by 2002. Currently Russia is adopting the Iskander-M (NATO designation SS-26 Stone), which incorporates Oka's technology.

   The Oka is a single stage, solid fuel missile. It is essentially a longer version of the SS-21 Scarab. Maximum range of fire was up to 480 km, depending on the warhead. Vehicle was fitted with HE-FRAG, cluster, chemical or nuclear (100 - 500 kT) warheads . The Oka had inertial and active radar terminal guidance, with a CEP of 30 - 150 m. Such accuracy is sufficient to engage moving targets. Missile was designed to overcome air defense systems.

  The main targets for this missile were airfields, command posts, air defense batteries, support facilities.

   In travelling position missile is hidden inside the TEL vehicle. In this position it is protected from both direct hits, environment and NBC threats. While travelling this missile system is hard to intercept due to it's speed and mobility. Vehicle is capable of rapid deployment. Missile is prepared for launch from travelling in less than 10 minutes, without leaving the cab. It could be also launched remotely from the vehicle.

   The Oka missile system was based on the BAZ-6944 amphibious high-mobility vehicle. It is powered by the UTD-25 diesel engine, developing 400 hp. Vehicle is fully amphibious without preparation. On water it is propelled by two waterjets.

   The SS-23 Spider is supported by reloading vehicle, based on the same 8x8 BAZ chassis.

Variants

   Oka-U, improved variant of the Spider, featuring improved firing accuracy. Development work on this missile stopped in 1987.