North Korea supplies Russia with powerful artillery boost
North Korea continues to support the Russian Federation. According to the Ukrainian portal Defense Express, a transport of M-1989 "Koksan" self-propelled artillery pieces has been spotted in Russia.
Russia is receiving M-1989 "Koksan" self-propelled howitzers with a 170 mm caliber from North Korea. The transportation of these units was captured on video, although the exact time and location remain unknown. The video reveals at least ten such vehicles, covered with green camouflage nets.
New artillery deliveries
This is not the first time these systems have been observed moving around Russia. It is worth recalling that the M-1989 "Koksan" was seen being transported to Russia as early as mid-November. In October, reports mentioned the training of Russian soldiers on these systems at a unit specializing in artillery training in Saratov.
However, it is important to note that despite these deliveries, there is currently no evidence confirming the use of this weapon in combat. Defense Express suggests that the Russians may consider this artillery as an alternative to the Pion howitzers (203 mm caliber), which are depleting from the Russian arsenal each week.
Technical specifications
The M-1989 "Koksan" is a weapon with a range of up to 37 miles using rocket-assisted projectiles. When using standard ammunition, this range is limited to 25 miles. The firing rate is two rounds every five minutes. Notably, the "Koksan" uses a 170 mm caliber cannon, unique to North Korea. This means that the Russians must source ammunition from North Korea, as they use a different caliber in their own weapon systems.
