North Korean artillery in Crimea hints at deeper Russian strategy
Analysts from the German portal ZDF are highlighting the recently noticed late March transport of North Korean M-1989 Koksan artillery units heading towards Crimea. According to experts, this may indicate that the Russians intend to move troops from Korea to Ukrainian territory. Until now, the soldiers there had only fought in Russia.
In Crimea, North Korean Koksan artillery systems have been observed, which may suggest that Russia plans to transfer some troops from North Korea to Ukraine. ZDF reports that on March 26, a video appeared online showing the transport of these units by rail to the northern part of Crimea.
The importance of "Koksan" artillery
The "Koksan" artillery played a key role in Russian operations in the Kursk region due to its long range. Analysts calculate that Ukraine has managed to destroy at least five of these units using drones, yet Pyongyang has supplied Moscow with at least 200 more.
Possible escalation of conflict
The presence of North Korean artillery systems in Ukraine could signal an escalation. ZDF suggests that Russia may be planning a rapid deployment of North Korean ground forces in Ukraine. Analysts also note that this would be the first time North Korean troops would be deployed to Ukraine. So far, Pyongyang's soldiers have only fought in the Russian Federation.
Let's also recall that, according to South Korean intelligence, North Korea has sent a new group of soldiers to Russia, numbering at least 3,000 people. Despite the Ukrainian armed forces effectively destroying North Korean technology, Pyongyang still has large reserves of troops and equipment.
The Koksan guns are distinguished primarily by their 170 mm calibre, which enables them to achieve a long range. Standard high-explosive shells can cover a distance of about 43 kilometres, but when using special ammunition, this range can increase to about 60 kilometres. This system is characterized by a firing rate of two rounds every five minutes, and its operation requires a coordinated effort from an eight-member crew.
