South Korean arms may bolster Ukraine amidst Russia ties
The authorities in South Korea are increasingly concerned about the tightening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. They are considering a change in their approach to the conflict in Ukraine, which could involve the transfer of South Korean weapons to the front lines. But what type of weapons might be involved?
South Korean media report that the government plans to send a delegation to NATO to exchange information about the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Additionally, Seoul is contemplating sending 155 mm artillery shells to the front as a response to the potential presence of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine. It is emphasised that reinforcements from South Korea would be provided to Ukraine indirectly, through the United States.
Ammunition from South Korea for Ukraine?
According to the Global Firepower rankings, South Korea has the fifth most powerful army in the world. Furthermore, it is known as one of the largest producers of 155 mm artillery ammunition.
The conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated that artillery ammunition is one of the key resources used in combat. Currently, the defending army facing Russia relies on supplies from NATO, but these are insufficient.
155 mm artillery shells are vital for the operation of modern NATO artillery, which has already reached the front. This includes, among others, Krab howitzers from Poland, CAESAR from France, and Panzerhaubitze 2000 (PzH 2000) from Germany.
Ukraine may gain a powerful ally
In South Korean arms factories, various types of 155 mm artillery shells are produced. These include both basic shells containing 6.5 kilograms of TNT and capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 30 kilometres, as well as shells with cluster warheads or those with gas generators, which have a longer range.
Additionally, South Korea possesses 105 mm artillery ammunition, which would also be highly beneficial for the Ukrainian army.
It appears less likely that heavy military equipment would be the first to be transferred from South Korea if there is a change in approach to the conflict in Ukraine. However, the Ukrainian portal Defence Express suggested that in such an event, "candidates" could primarily be seen in T-80U tanks and BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, which are considered less critical to the South Korean army.
