North Korea has significantly ramped up its production of weapons and increased supplies to Russia to support its war efforts in Ukraine, according to satellite imagery and information obtained by The Wall Street Journal. Approximately 200 munitions factories in North Korea are now reportedly operating at full capacity.
Weapons Deliveries and Production Surge
Citing data from Washington and Seoul officials, The Wall Street Journal reported that North Korea has supplied Russia with around 20,000 containers of ammunition. These shipments include a wide range of arms, from low-quality artillery shells, such as 122mm and 152mm, to advanced Hwasong-11 ballistic missiles. Ukrainian officials estimate these deliveries have exceeded five million artillery shells and included dozens of missiles, over 100 of which are Hwasong-11 class.
Recently, North Korea has also supplied Russia with 170mm self-propelled howitzers and 240mm long-range multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS). Notably, these systems have been upgraded with modern guidance and control mechanisms, signalling a shift from merely depleting old stockpiles to supplying newly manufactured arms.
Collaboration and Modernisation Efforts
The report highlights that North Korea’s 240mm MLRS, once considered outdated, has undergone significant modernisation, enhancing its operational effectiveness. Similarly, the country’s 600mm rocket launchers (KN-25), first tested in 2019, were upgraded earlier this year with Russian technical support. These weapons now blur the line between MLRS and short-range ballistic missiles.
Satellite imagery also indicates an expansion of North Korea’s missile production facilities, particularly those manufacturing Hwasong-11 missiles, known in the West as KN-23 and KN-24. A factory on North Korea’s east coast has reportedly added new structures, potentially designed to conceal loading operations. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has personally overseen operations at the site, ordering serial production of tactical missiles.
Increased Rail Traffic Between North Korea and Russia
Railway transportation between North Korea and Russia has reached record levels this year. The Tumangang-Hasan border crossing has seen a threefold increase in railcars compared to the previous year, with activity surging after a high-profile meeting between Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in September.
According to The Wall Street Journal, this cooperation extends beyond arms supplies. South Korean officials suggest Russia has provided North Korea with air defence systems and technical support for its reconnaissance satellite programmes. Experts note that Pyongyang’s outdated air defence systems require substantial upgrades to counter the superior air forces of Seoul and Washington. Furthermore, North Korea is reportedly seeking Russian assistance in intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) technology.
Financial and Strategic Implications
The growing arms trade between North Korea and Russia is financially significant. Experts estimate Pyongyang could have earned as much as $5.5 billion from arms deals with Moscow this year. The trade also underscores the strategic partnership between the two regimes, with both seeking to circumvent international sanctions and bolster their military capabilities.
In return for weapons, Russia has been supplying North Korea with fuel and equipment to sustain its weapons production. The mutual benefits have created a robust pipeline of resources and technical expertise flowing in both directions.
Broader Implications
This intensifying partnership comes at a critical time in the war in Ukraine. North Korea’s assistance is bolstering Russia’s capacity to sustain its military operations, leveraging its advantage against Ukrainian forces. This support also poses challenges for Western countries attempting to pressure Moscow diplomatically or economically.
Additionally, the cooperation reflects the shifting dynamics of global alliances, with North Korea positioning itself as a key partner for Russia amidst increasing international isolation.
As North Korea intensifies its weapons production, the ramifications for regional and global security grow increasingly significant. This partnership not only bolsters Russia’s capabilities in Ukraine but also propels North Korea’s military aspirations, potentially reshaping the strategic balance in East Asia.
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