South Korea weighs arms aid to Ukraine amid rising tensions
The authorities in South Korea are increasingly worried about the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. They frequently mention that they are reconsidering their approach to the war in Ukraine, which could potentially involve transferring South Korean weapons to the conflict zone. But what specifically might be transferred?
7:31 PM EDT, October 21, 2024
South Korean media reports that the government plans to send a delegation to NATO to exchange information about the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Furthermore, Seoul is considering providing 155 mm artillery shells to Ukraine. Such transfers would be a response to the presence of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine. It's emphasized that any reinforcements from South Korea would be transferred indirectly, via the United States.
Ammunition from South Korea for Ukraine?
According to the Global Firepower ranking, South Korea has the fifth most powerful army in the world. Additionally, it is considered one of the largest producers of 155 mm artillery ammunition.
The war in Ukraine has demonstrated that artillery ammunition is one of the key resources used in combat. Currently, the Ukrainian army, defending against Russia, relies on supplies from NATO, but these supplies are not sufficient.
155 mm artillery shells are essential for the operation of modern NATO artillery deployed at the front. This includes, among others, the Krab howitzers from Poland, CAESAR howitzers from France, and the Panzerhaubitze 2000 (PzH 2000) from Germany.
Ukraine could gain a powerful ally
South Korean arms factories produce various types of 155 mm artillery shells. These include basic shells containing 15 lbs of TNT, capable of hitting targets up to about 19 miles away, as well as shells with cluster warheads or rocket-assisted projectiles, which have a greater range.
Additionally, South Korea possesses 105 mm artillery ammunition, which would also be very useful for the Ukrainian army.
It seems less likely that South Korea would initially transfer heavy military equipment in the event of a shift in their approach to the war in Ukraine. However, the Ukrainian portal Defence Express suggested that in such a scenario, T-80U tanks and BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles might be considered "favorites" for transfer, as they are no longer particularly crucial for the South Korean army.
