Russian jets for Pyongyang: North Korea's risky upgrade
In exchange for assisting Russia in the conflict with Ukraine, North Korea is set to receive Russian MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets. Although these are more modern aircraft than those currently used by North Korea, Reuben F. Johnson suggests that Pyongyang may ultimately be dissatisfied with this arrangement.
Reuben F. Johnson is a former consultant for the Pentagon and an experienced military technology analyst. In his latest analysis, he stated that the Su-27 and MiG-29 would significantly enhance North Korea's ageing air force, but their use could come with substantial challenges.
North Korea counts on Russian aircraft
"Additional MiG-29s and/or Su-27s would be a plus-up in theory for the KPAF, but what may cause problems for this transfer of used aircraft to Kim is that the 4th-generation MiG-29s and Su-27s have not been in production for quite some time. The Su-27s have been replaced by the newer, more advanced Sukhoi fighters mentioned above, and the MiG-29 is now superseded by the MiG-35," noted Reuben F. Johnson.
According to the expert, problems may particularly arise during attempts at long-term operation and maintenance, due in part to a shortage of spare parts.
"There are plenty of stories already out there about countries using older Russian aircraft having to come up with their own means of supporting these platforms," added Reuben F. Johnson.
Payment for weapons delivered to Russia
The precise number of Su-27 and MiG-29 aircraft Pyongyang can expect remains unclear. Although these planes are significantly better than most currently in North Korea's fleet, there was initial speculation that Moscow might provide newer machines to its ally (speculation centered around the Su-35 and Su-30SM). Only at the end of 2024 did several credible sources report that the agreement would ultimately involve the Su-27 and MiG-29.
The delivery of Russian aircraft is intended as a gesture of gratitude for the support North Korea has given regarding the conflict in Ukraine. For months, this has involved the transfer of large amounts of artillery ammunition, KN-23 (Hwasong-11A) ballistic missiles with a range of approximately 595 kilometres, as well as M1989 "Koksan" artillery systems and multiple rocket launchers.
Additionally, in Russia's Kursk region, several thousand North Korean soldiers have already been deployed, joining the fight against Ukrainians.
