North Korea to Send Thousands of Workers to Support Drone Production in Russia
North Korea is reportedly sending about 25,000 workers to Russia to assist in the production of Shahed drones. This collaboration aims to enhance Russia’s drone capabilities and train North Korean personnel. Comments from Ukrainian leaders highlight the increased military tensions that may arise, particularly regarding the balance of power between North and South Korea, as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
North Korea seems to be ramping up its cooperation with Russia by sending a significant number of workers to aid in the production of Shahed drones, which are primarily used for attacks. Reports suggest that up to 25,000 North Korean workers will be dispatched to the Shahed factory located in Alabuga, within the Tatarstan region of Russia. This information came to light through a Japanese news outlet, NKH, citing diplomatic sources from the West and Russia.
This collaboration not only aims to boost drone production capabilities in Russia but also provide training for North Korean workers on how to operate these unmanned systems. Currently, the Alabuga facility is able to produce around 2,000 drones each month, with ambitious plans to increase that production to approximately 5,000 per month. Recent satellite imagery shared on social media indicates an expansion of the factory, possibly accommodating new workers.
Housing for these workers typically consists of two-story dormitories with facilities for shared living. Reports suggest that each dormitory could approximately house 256 individuals. Meanwhile, Russia’s drone capabilities are increasingly crucial in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since the first deployment of Shahed drones in September 2022, these have evolved significantly, now featuring more powerful warheads and some level of operational autonomy.
In a notable military offensive overnight, Russia launched a staggering 104 Shahed-type drones at Ukraine as part of its ongoing military strategy. The increased reliance on these drones has raised concerns in Ukraine and made the Alabuga factory a frequent target of drone strikes from Ukrainian forces.
A unique drone strike was executed by Ukrainian special operations recently, targeting the Alabuga facility. This strike utilized a converted Aeroprakt A-22 aircraft, which was towing an explosive-laden glider. The adaptation allowed the aircraft to increase its payload considerably while simultaneously targeting multiple objectives.
In addition to drone-related efforts, North Korea is also sending workers to assist with reconstruction in Kursk. The Russian Security Council Secretary, Sergey Shoigu, revealed that around 1,000 North Korean sappers would help with demining operations, while an additional 5,000 workers would support rebuilding the devastated infrastructure of the region, a site of intense fighting since Ukraine’s surprise attack last August.
Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate has voiced concerns about how this collaboration shifts military balances across the region, particularly affecting the relationship between North and South Korea. He mentioned that agreements were forming for North Korea to develop its own drone manufacturing capabilities.
Budanov also indicated that these laborers might not just be filling manual positions; they could potentially enroll in contracts with Russia’s Defense Ministry, possibly leading to further militarization.
Moreover, he pointed out Russia’s significant contributions to North Korea, which include enhancing the precision of its ballistic missiles and modernizing its military assets, such as long-range air-to-air missiles and nuclear submarines. If these developments continue, they could provide a surprising edge for Russia, while placing increased strain on Ukraine’s defenses.
The increasing collaboration between North Korea and Russia poses significant implications for global security. With tens of thousands of North Korean workers heading to Russia to produce Shahed drones, the military balance in the region may shift further. This not only supports Russia’s drone production amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine but also raises alarms for South Korea regarding potential North Korean military advancements. The situation remains fluid and could escalate, particularly considering the historical context of these nations’ relationships.
Original Source: www.twz.com
