North Korean artillery systems bolster Russian forces in Ukraine

According to Defence Express, this is the first video evidence of the North Korean M1991 MLRS being used by Russian forces. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukrainian military intelligence, has reported that Russia has already received 120 of these units from North Korea, with more shipments of a similar size anticipated in the near future.

The M1991 MLRS is a North Korean multiple rocket launcher system that has been a key part of North Korea's rocket artillery arsenal for some time. Despite the limited availability of data and lack of official specifications, the M1991 has gained a reputation as a local adaptation of Soviet technology, enhancing North Korea's military capabilities. It is often regarded as equivalent to the Soviet Uragan system.

This system features a multi-rail launcher mounted on either a 6x6 or 8x8 wheeled vehicle, which gives it the flexibility to manoeuvre effectively over rough terrain. It can carry 12 to 22 rockets of 240 mm calibre, fitting between the traditional Grad launchers and more powerful systems like the BM-30 Smerch.

The rockets fired from the M1991 can achieve a range of approximately 30 to 60 kilometres, depending on the type of ammunition utilised. The missiles are believed to be based on older Soviet designs, though their precise specifications remain unknown. It's also possible that North Korean variants featuring modernised engines and warheads are used.

It's noteworthy that the M1991 exists in several versions, some of which have been identified during military parades, showcasing variants with more advanced fire control cabins and modified launchers. The system likely does not use sophisticated guidance systems, as the rockets are unguided, limiting their accuracy over longer distances. Nonetheless, with the mass usage strategy typical of North Korean doctrine, the M1991 can pose a significant threat to infrastructure, military installations, and urban areas.