North Korea Delivers New Batch of M1989 Koksan Howitzers to Russia

On December 19, 2024, new videos circulated on Telegram showing additional batches of North Korean M1989 Koksan 170mm self-propelled artillery systems being transported by train across Russian territory. This is the second documented transfer of such weapons in recent weeks, following initial reports on November 20, 2024.

Although there is no confirmation of their use in active combat, the repeated transport of these heavy artillery systems indicates a growing pattern of military collaboration between Russia and North Korea amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The M1989 Koksan, one of North Korea’s most powerful artillery platforms, is designed for long-range fire missions. Introduced in 1989, the system is built around a massive 170mm caliber gun mounted on a tracked chassis, enabling mobility over rugged terrain.

Its range is particularly noteworthy—standard shells can reach up to 40 kilometers, while rocket-assisted projectiles can extend to 60 kilometers. These characteristics make the Koksan ideal for strategic bombardments against distant targets, such as critical infrastructure or enemy positions.

Despite its firepower, the M1989 Koksan is not without limitations. Its slow rate of fire, producing only one to two rounds every five minutes, reflects the challenges of handling its large and heavy ammunition. Nevertheless, the weapon’s long reach has been a defining feature, notably during the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s, where it excelled in counter-battery operations and long-range bombardment campaigns.

Growing Russo-North Korean Military Ties

Over the past year, North Korea has steadily increased its military support to Russia, delivering artillery systems, ammunition, and possibly even troops. This partnership appears to address Moscow’s critical need to replenish its dwindling stockpiles of artillery and maintain battlefield effectiveness after enduring heavy losses in Ukraine.

Intelligence reports suggest that North Korea has also provided rockets, shells, and specialized weaponry, including the M1989 Koksan, to help Russia bridge gaps in its long-range firepower capabilities. In addition to weapons shipments, there are growing indications of North Korean personnel participating in the conflict.

Sightings of North Korean troops, particularly in defensive roles in regions like Kursk, have surfaced, with some reports indicating significant casualties among these forces. While Pyongyang has not officially acknowledged the deployment of its soldiers, the presence of North Korean manpower alongside Russian units underscores the deepening military cooperation between the two nations.

Challenges of Deployment and Logistical Hurdles

The arrival of M1989 Koksans in Russia raises questions about their potential role in the conflict. While their extended range offers a tactical advantage, logistical hurdles could hinder their effectiveness.

The Koksan’s unique 170mm ammunition is incompatible with standard Russian artillery systems, necessitating a dedicated supply chain from North Korea.

Ensuring a steady flow of specialized munitions could strain resources and complicate battlefield logistics. Furthermore, the Koksan’s slow firing rate may limit its utility in high-intensity engagements, where rapid and sustained firepower is often crucial.

Despite these challenges, the system’s ability to deliver precision strikes against strategic targets could make it a valuable asset in certain scenarios, particularly in operations requiring long-range capabilities.

Strategic Implications and Global Attention

The transfer of M1989 Koksans is just one component of the broader military collaboration between North Korea and Russia. Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, Pyongyang has reportedly supplied Moscow with various military assets, including ammunition, artillery systems, and potentially personnel.

This partnership offers mutual benefits: North Korea gains an opportunity to demonstrate its military-industrial capacity and strengthen its ties with a major global power, while Russia receives much-needed support to sustain its military operations.

The alliance has not gone unnoticed by the international community. Western governments are closely monitoring the situation, viewing the growing Russo-North Korean cooperation as a destabilizing factor in the region. The repeated transfer of advanced artillery systems like the M1989 Koksan highlights the extent of Moscow’s reliance on external partners to address its military challenges.