North Korean Koksan Artillery Guns in Crimea: A Precursor to Troop Deployments?
North Korean 170mm Koksan artillery guns have been spotted in Crimea, indicating possible increased military involvement in the Ukraine conflict. The presence of these systems along with reports of their transportation suggests a potential shift towards direct North Korean involvement in the war, raising the possibility of deploying ground troops into Ukraine soon.
Recent sightings of North Korean 170mm ‘Koksan’ artillery guns in Crimea suggest a deepening military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow amid the conflict in Ukraine. A Telegram channel shared an image of a military train carrying 7-8 Koksan guns alongside military equipment, including a truck identified as a Chinese Sinotruk Howo traditionally associated with North Korean parades. However, its exact role is uncertain.
Speculation arises regarding the truck’s function: it may be transporting components for the 240mm M1991 MLRS or shells for the Koksan guns. Notably, these artillery systems have previously been linked to attacks on Ukrainian forces. The Koksan artillery boasts an extended operational range of 60 kilometers, rivaling Ukraine’s HIMARS and GLSDB systems in terms of striking power.
While Ukrainian forces have successfully destroyed five Koksan systems with drone strikes, reports indicate that North Korea may have already sent as many as 200 units to Russia. Historically, the DPRK’s involvement has been restricted to Russian territory, particularly near Kursk Oblast, but the supply of Koksan guns to Crimea could imply a shift toward a more aggressive North Korean military role in the region.
This development raises concerns about a possible deployment of North Korean ground troops onto Ukrainian soil, marking a significant escalation. Sources suggest that the presence of Koksan artillery could lead to direct strikes on major Ukrainian cities, indicating preparation for a more extensive Russian offensive as spring approaches.
The conflict has also seen Ukraine adapt by increasing drone operations against North Korean assets, thereby mitigating artillery threats. Since the invasion began, over 25,000 Russian artillery systems have been destroyed by Ukrainian forces, leading to a heavy reliance on North Korean Koksans to replenish losses. Analysis shows that by late 2024, North Korean shells comprised a substantial part of Russia’s artillery support in eastern Ukraine.
The sightings of North Korean Koksan artillery guns in Crimea signify a potential escalation in military cooperation between North Korea and Russia amidst the Ukraine conflict. This situation raises concerns about the possible deployment of North Korean ground troops in Ukraine, potentially transforming Pyongyang’s role from passive support to active engagement in the conflict. With significant implications for the security dynamics in the region, monitoring these developments remains crucial as the situation evolves.
Original Source: www.kyivpost.com
