Seoul Sees No Signs Of Imminent North Korean Troop Deployment To Russia

South Korea's Ministry of Defense said that North Korea continues to supply Russia with weapons, including short-range ballistic missiles

According to the report, North Korea is estimated to have supplied Russia with more than 15 million rounds of artillery ammunition, including 152mm shells.

Citing assessments by South Korea's Defense Intelligence Agency, the report said that North Korean missiles used by Russia in the war against Ukraine may have become more accurate thanks to data obtained from combat operations. Their performance may also have been affected by technical consultations and the supply of components by Russia.

The ministry also said that the development of some North Korean ballistic missiles and multiple launch rocket systems, which are likely intended for use in the event of a conflict with South Korea, is nearing completion. The ministry added that North Korea's Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile, which is capable of reaching the U.S. territory of Guam, is being prepared for operational deployment.

The ministry noted that North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missiles have sufficient range to reach the continental United States, but key technologies, including warhead reentry, have not been tested, as all test launches have been conducted on a lofted trajectory.

Read also: North Korea denies plans to deploy additional troops to Russia

North Korea and Russia have deepened military cooperation since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. According to assessments by South Korea, Ukraine, and Western countries, Pyongyang has been supplying Russia with artillery ammunition and missiles since 2023 and has been deploying its troops to Russia since 2024.

Moscow and Pyongyang have previously denied supplying weapons.

As previously reported by Ukrinform, North Korea sent another 8,500 troops to Russia, including UAV operators.

KCNA photo

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