Russia eyeing North Korea's advanced missile arsenal
The Russian Federation Army may potentially acquire new weapons from North Korea, according to analysts from the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. They point to the transport of mysterious weapons spotted in the Russian Tyumen region. It is believed that Pukguksong-2 missiles, with a range of at least 745 miles, might be heading there by rail.
North Korea continues its arms deliveries to Russia. According to Defense Express, the delivered equipment might include Pukguksong-2 ballistic missiles. These missiles, also known as KN-15, range at least 745 miles.
Further support for Russia from North Korea
The Ukrainian portal highlights a recently published video showing a shipment of military equipment from North Korea destined for the Russian army. Among the transported weapons are primarily M-1989 "Koksan" self-propelled howitzers, another type of support seen heading that way in recent days. The footage also shows mysterious missiles. In the Tyumen region, where the footage originates, analysts identify several Pukguksong-2 missiles.
Korean KN-15 missiles
The Pukguksong-2 rockets are a land-based version of the Pukguksong-1 missiles, which are designed for launching from submarines. This ammunition is relatively new, as the development of these missiles likely began before 2014. The first successful tests took place in 2017. During these tests, the missile reached a range of 310 miles and an altitude of 342 miles.
Pukguksong-2, also known as KN-15, are two-stage solid-fuel missiles approximately 30 feet long and 5 feet wide. They can carry nuclear warheads and are, according to military analysts, more stable, efficient, and harder to detect than North Korea's previously developed missiles.
The KN-15 uses a cold launch system, which initiates the launch using compressed gas. The engine ignites only after the missile is airborne. This Korean missile's design somewhat resembles the American LGM-118 Peacekeeper, particularly its launch mechanism, which is equipped with "bearings" that assist the launch. The KN-15's operational range is estimated to be at least 745 miles.
