North Korea Supplies 25-40% of Russia's Artillery Ammunition, Claims Ukrainian Intelligence

Ukraine's military intelligence claims North Korea has emerged as a crucial arms supplier for Russia, potentially providing between 25% and 40% of the artillery ammunition used by Russian forces. This assessment, from the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine (GUR), suggests a significant escalation in military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow.

According to Ukrainian intelligence reports, since June 2023, North Korea has supplied Russia with over 100 ballistic missiles, around 600 artillery systems, and more than seven million projectiles of various calibers. This level of support, described as "systemic," indicates that the military-technical relationship between the two nations has evolved into a stable, long-term partnership.

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Phenianul a livrat Moscovei peste 100 de rachete balistice, aproximativ 600 de sisteme de artilerie și peste șapte milioane de proiectile de diferite calibre

The GUR estimates that Pyongyang now occupies a "key position" among Russia's external suppliers, fulfilling a substantial portion of its artillery ammunition requirements. The reported deliveries include specific types of North Korean weaponry, such as KN-23 and KN-24 ballistic missiles, along with their launchers. At least 80 of these missiles are believed to have been deployed on the Ukrainian frontlines, with documented use dating back to late December 2023.

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relația militaro-tehnică dintre Rusia și Coreea de Nord s-a transformat într-un parteneriat stabil și de lungă durată.

In addition to missiles, North Korea has allegedly provided Russia with over 600 artillery systems, including self-propelled howitzers, multiple rocket launchers, anti-tank systems, and mortars. Furthermore, the supply of over seven million projectiles for various weapon systems underscores the scale of Pyongyang's support. Ukrainian intelligence suggests North Korea's defense industry has a substantial annual production capacity for artillery shells, estimated between one and two million units.

These extensive arms shipments have reportedly generated significant revenue for North Korea. While the GUR stated it has no information indicating the use of North Korean high-tech components in Russian drone or missile production, the scale of conventional arms transfers highlights a deepening strategic alignment between the two countries amidst ongoing international scrutiny.

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Phenianul ocupă în prezent „o poziție-cheie” în rândul furnizorilor externi ai Rusiei, acoperind între un sfert și două cincimi din consumul de muniție de artilerie al forțelor ruse.