Ukrainian Drone Attack Reportedly Damages North Korean Howitzers in Kursk
Forbes has reported that Ukraine’s 14th Regiment of Unmanned Aerial Systems may have damaged three North Korean M1989 howitzers near Kursk Oblast using drone-assisted HIMARS strikes. This incident reflects Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to combat Russian and North Korean forces, despite facing significant coordination challenges and casualties during recent conflicts in the region.
Recent reports from Forbes indicate that Ukraine’s 14th Regiment of Unmanned Aerial Systems may have successfully struck and damaged three North Korean M1989 howitzers in a coordinated drone attack near Kursk Oblast in Russia around March 18. The drone operators detected the howitzers concealed within treelines and relayed their coordinates to a nearby Ukrainian battery equipped with High-Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS).
The battery reportedly fired an M30 rocket, which exploded above the trees, releasing numerous grenade-sized submunitions onto the North Korean artillery pieces. The actual extent of the damage inflicted by this strike remains unclear. The M1989 Koksan, a 40-ton self-propelled artillery system with a 170-mm caliber, is capable of impressive ranges. Conventional shells can reach up to 40 km, while advanced ammunition can travel as far as 60 km.
Further context suggests that North Korea has provided Russia with an array of military equipment, including the M1989 howitzers and various missile systems. Prior to this recent attack, Ukrainian forces had already engaged and destroyed at least one M1989 and additional anti-tank systems. Additionally, a Russian drone mistakenly took out one of the North Korean air defense systems in a mix-up.
The situation intensified last week, with a large Ukrainian force previously positioned in Kursk coming under fire from a significant attack by the Rubicon Center of Advanced Unmanned Systems, targeting their supplies in Sudzha. Concurrently, North Korean troops advanced in the region, further complicating the Ukrainian defense, which ultimately resulted in their retreat and loss of military assets. Despite significant Ukrainian losses, they maintained their aerial assaults against opposing forces in the area.
Forbes reports that the offensive in Kursk, while perceived as a victory for Russian and North Korean forces, may have resulted in catastrophic casualties and vehicle losses on their side, although Ukrainian losses were comparatively lighter than those of their opponents.
The reported damage to North Korean howitzers by Ukrainian drone strikes showcases the effectiveness of drone warfare in modern combat. The engagement highlights ongoing military exchanges between North Korea and Russia, pointing to strategic partnerships that influence the conflict in Ukraine. Despite tactical losses, Ukraine continues to leverage drones and artillery to target enemy forces, marking significant dynamics in the ongoing war.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
