Ukraine Destroys North Korean Howitzers in Kursk Region
Ukraine destroyed three North Korean Koksan howitzers in the Kursk region, as reported by the Unmanned Systems Forces Command. The howitzers, acquired by Russia from North Korea and camouflaged, were identified by Ukrainian drone operators and targeted using high-explosive munitions. This incident marks Ukraine’s second successful strike against such artillery systems in recent conflict efforts against Russia.
Ukraine successfully targeted and destroyed three North Korean Koksan self-propelled howitzers in the Kursk region, according to the Unmanned Systems Forces Command. These artillery systems, provided to Russia by North Korea, were camouflaged within a forested area and protected by makeshift defenses against drones.
Ukrainian drone operators identified the howitzers’ positions and subsequently engaged them with high-explosive and cluster warheads from their rocket artillery. This marks the second instance of Ukrainian forces striking North Korean howitzer units during the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war, with the first occurrence noted about a month prior in Luhansk.
The Koksan howitzer, characterized by its 170-mm gun and operational range of up to 60 km, is notably the longest-range artillery piece in the North Korean arsenal. It was originally designed with the capability to target Seoul from within the demilitarized zone.
Currently, these artillery systems are being utilized by Russian forces in their conflict against Ukraine to mitigate the significant losses sustained in their artillery capabilities. Recent reports indicate that as of March 18, 76 combat encounters occurred between Ukrainian and Russian forces, particularly intensifying in the Kursk region.
The destruction of North Korean Koksan howitzers by Ukraine emphasizes their continued tactical advantage in utilizing drone technology for reconnaissance and precision strikes. The Koksan howitzers, designed for long-range engagements, are now being repurposed by Russian forces due to their artillery losses. The ongoing combat dynamics show intense warfare in various regions, especially Kursk, as both sides engage in numerous confrontations.
Original Source: www.ukrinform.net
