Defense: Pyongyang Begins Drone Mass Production With Russian Aid
Moscow shares missile data and parts while North Korea tests nuclear-capable rockets, prompting Seoul to launch its own hypersonic missile in response.
By Lucia Orlov ·
North Korea has begun mass-producing attack drones with technical assistance from Russia, according to a report by The New York Times. The newspaper states that Moscow is exchanging military developments for North Korean soldiers, workers, and weapons. This cooperation follows the renewal of military ties between the two nations after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The drone program appears designed to overwhelm expensive air defense systems. Analysts note that Pyongyang has studied how inexpensive drones are used in Ukraine and the Middle East. During a military drill last month, North Korean forces launched a drone swarm at a target island. Cruise and ballistic missiles struck the same target simultaneously from different directions.
This development coincides with recent missile tests. In early October, Pyongyang tested a tactical ballistic missile it claims can carry a nuclear payload. South Korea and Japan estimated the missile traveled approximately 700 kilometers, while North Korea claimed a range of 1,000 kilometers. Access to Russian deployment data and feedback has helped improve the accuracy and maneuverability of these weapons, according to analyst Anton Ponomarenko.
South Korea responded to the October test with its first hypersonic ballistic missile launch. President Lee Jae Myung observed the test five days after the North Korean launch. The New York Times described this action as a sign of growing unease in Seoul regarding the rapid progress of North Korea’s missile technology. Seoul typically issues short statements calling such tests provocative, but this response involved a direct live-fire demonstration.
The partnership extends beyond missile data. Bloomberg reported in September that up to 25,000 North Koreans are working at Russian military plants, including facilities in Alabuga, Tatarstan. These workers are involved in the production of military drones. A North Korean missile unit capable of deploying 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers has also begun positioning itself in western Russia.
Recent reports indicate an intensifying exchange of hardware and personnel. Russia asked North Korea in August to provide KN-30 ballistic missiles. In June, North Korea announced tests of a modernized 240mm multiple-launch rocket system, a tactical ballistic missile, and a 155mm long-range artillery shell. The New York Times argues that these evolving tactics will force South Korea and its allies to redesign air defense systems at high cost.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda
