For the first time, North Korea’s long-range 170mm M1989 Koksan howitzer appears to have been seen in Russia, transported by rail, according to images published by Russian media, reported Ukrainian military outlet Militarny on November 14.
The exact location and timing of the photograph are unverified.
The artillery piece, recognized by its distinctive five-wheel tracked chassis, matches the silhouette of the North Korean M1989 Koksan, a unique self-propelled howitzer known for its range. When firing standard rounds, the Koksan fire range can reach up to 40 kilometers; with rocket-assisted shells, this range extends to nearly 60 kilometers, offering firepower well beyond that of most Russian artillery systems.
Only a Soviet aging 203mm 2S7 “Pion” howitzer matches these specifications.
The presence of Koksan units, if verified, could provide Russia with extended-range artillery capabilities for counter-battery operations, potentially targeting Ukrainian systems like the PzH2000, CAESAR, and Bohdana.
The Koksan howitzer, a North Korean-designed system that debuted in 1989, was created as a “strategic” weapon for targeting positions in South Korea.
It has been battle-tested since its deployment by Iran in 1987, where it conducted long-range bombardments, maximizing its reach with rocket-assisted rounds.
If integrated into Russian arsenals, the M1989 Koksan would give Russia access to North Korea’s 170mm ammunition stockpile, previously untapped.
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