North Korea to Expand Support for Russia With More Artillery, Attack Drones and Troops

North Korea plans to deploy additional troops, heavy artillery, and possibly attack drones, according to Yonhap News, citing South Korean military sources on December 23.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) of South Korea reported that Pyongyang is supplying 240-mm rocket launchers and 170-mm self-propelled artillery while preparing to rotate or expand its troop deployment in Russia.

“Comprehensive intelligence assessments suggest North Korea is not only rotating troops but also moving toward manufacturing and supplying attack drones, which were first showcased during Kim Jong-un’s on-site inspections in November,” the JCS stated.

North Korea is believed to have already sent thousands of soldiers to assist Russian forces, with South Korea’s National Intelligence Service estimating around 1,100 North Korean casualties in the ongoing hostilities.

Last month, North Korean state media highlighted Kim Jong-un’s presence at the testing of various suicide drones. Kim emphasized their cost-effectiveness and critical role in modern warfare, calling for mass production. These drones could soon play a significant role in Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.

While there are no immediate signs of a military provocation, the JCS warned of the potential for sudden escalations. North Korea may use an upcoming year-end plenary meeting to showcase military power, possibly by testing hypersonic missiles or intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Looking ahead to 2025, South Korea predicts North Korea will balance its military collaboration with Russia while engaging in ‘gray zone’ provocations, including GPS jamming and other covert operations.

The JCS underlined the importance of robust US-South Korea intelligence-sharing and readiness to counter potential provocations. These could range from a new nuclear test to additional missile launches, as Pyongyang seeks to strengthen its position against Washington.

Earlier, reports emerged that North Korea may have delivered KN-15 Ballistic missile systems, also known as Pukguksong-2, to Russia.