North Korean artillery spotted in Russia amid growing ties

Russia is receiving M-1989 "Koksan" self-propelled howitzers with a 170 mm calibre from North Korea. The transportation of these units was captured on video, although the time and location remain unknown. The video shows at least ten such vehicles, covered with green camouflage nets.

This is not the first time these systems have been observed moving around Russia. It should be recalled that the M-1989 "Koksan" was seen being transported to Russia as early as mid-November. In October, there were reports of the training of Russian soldiers on these systems at a unit specialising in artillery training in Saratov.

It is worth noting, however, that despite the deliveries, there is currently no evidence confirming the use of this weapon in combat. Defense Express notes that the Russians may be viewing this artillery as an alternative to the Pion howitzers (203 mm calibre), which are dwindling in the Russian arsenal each week.

The M-1989 "Koksan" is a weapon with a range of up to 60 kilometres using rocket-assisted projectiles. The use of standard ammunition limits this range to 40 kilometres. The firing rate is 2 rounds every 5 minutes. It's also notable that the "Koksan" uses a 170 mm calibre cannon, which is unique to North Korea. This means that the Russians must obtain ammunition from that country, as they use a different calibre in their own weapon systems.