North Korean artillery finds new ground in Russian alliance

The photos that surfaced on Russian social media shed new light on the cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang. It is unknown when and where they were taken. It's also possible that the photos have been distributed as part of Russian propaganda.

The "Koksan" artillery system is a self-propelled howitzer with a caliber of 170 mm, first introduced in the 1980s, with a modernized version, designated M1989, entering service around 1989. It is one of North Korea's most powerful artillery systems.

This system was designed to target South Korea's strategic objectives, including military and urban installations in the border zone and Seoul area. With its long range and caliber, the "Koksan" can operate beyond the reach of many enemy military systems, making it difficult to neutralize.

The exact specifications of the M1989 "Koksan" are not fully disclosed. However, it is known that the range can be about 25-31 miles, depending on the type of ammunition, and up to 37 miles when using special rocket-assisted projectiles (RAP). The howitzer is mounted on a tracked chassis, enhancing its mobility and allowing for rapid movement—an essential feature in military operations in challenging terrains.

Although it is not commonly used in direct conflicts, the "Koksan" has been observed in recent years during manoeuvres and military exercises organized by North Korea. This system has also appeared in Syria during the civil war, where government forces might have used it. Now it has most likely been delivered to Russia, suggesting that North Korea has supplied it to some allied countries.