KV2

KV-2 most commonly refers to the Soviet heavy assault tank used during World War II. It was built on the chassis of the KV-1 and mounted a very large turret housing a 152 mm howitzer. The design aimed to breach fortifications and provide direct artillery support for infantry, but it produced only a small number of vehicles and faced significant mechanical, weight, and reliability challenges. The turret’s oversized profile made the tank tall and vulnerable, and its mobility suffered on difficult terrain and rough roads.

Development and production: The KV-2 was produced in limited quantities between 1940 and 1941, with roughly fifty to sixty units completed. The combination of heavy firepower and cumbersome handling limited its effectiveness in the fast-moving warfare of 1941, and issues with reliability and logistics constrained its strategic value.

Operational history: In the early stages of the German invasion of the Soviet Union, KV-2s saw action on the Eastern Front. They demonstrated impressive firepower and psychological impact but were outmatched by more mobile German armor and anti-tank weapons. As the war progressed, their role diminished, and most were withdrawn from front-line service or lost in combat.

Other uses: KV2 also refers to a brand in the audio equipment industry, KV2 Audio. This company designs and manufactures professional loudspeakers and systems used in live sound reinforcement and installation applications. The name is sometimes encountered in contexts unrelated to the tank, reflecting its use as a product designation in other fields.