North Korea ramps up artillery production amid Russian ties
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a further increase in the production of artillery shells, as reported by the state agency KCNA. This report, covering Kim's inspection of arms factories, was highlighted by the South Korean agency Yonhap, suggesting a possible intent to continue supplying weapons to Russia.
KCNA noted that artillery shell production has increased fourfold compared to the annual average and nearly doubled compared to the previous peak year. These figures reportedly brought "great satisfaction" to Kim.
The North Korean leader urged factory workers, whose locations were not disclosed, to further boost shell production, emphasizing their importance in "strengthening the fighting efficiency."
Kim also discussed the modernization and long-term development of the machinery industry. He called for the production of "a larger number of intelligent, high-speed, precision and multi-functional machine-building equipment," which he believes will contribute to the development of both the defense industry and other economic sectors.
Pyongyang supports Putin's regime
According to Yonhap, the emphasis on increasing shell production may indicate North Korea's determination to continue supplying weapons to Russia in exchange for economic benefits and military technology.
Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Pyongyang has provided Moscow with various armaments, including artillery systems and millions of rounds of ammunition. Additionally, approximately 15,000 soldiers from North Korea have been deployed in the Kursk region in western Russia, according to estimates by South Korean and US intelligence agencies.
