North Korea has reportedly mobilized over 200 arms factories to aid Russia’s military operations, ramping up production of ammunition and missiles, according to a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report published Sunday.
The report, based on recent satellite imagery analysis, claims that in exchange for North Korea’s support, Russia has provided the country with cash, oil, and military technology. The KN-23 and KN-24 ballistic missiles, currently used by Russian forces in Ukraine, are reportedly being produced in North Korean facilities along the country’s eastern coast. Several new structures have been built to keep these operations under wraps, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has made multiple visits to oversee production.
The report indicates that North Korea continues to produce missiles at Russia’s request, with multiple rocket launch systems and artillery shells being transported to Russian forces via rail. The Wall Street Journal noted that rail traffic between North Korea and Russia has reached unprecedented levels.
Ukrainian military sources said that “North Korean munitions are sustaining the Russian military effort,” claiming that 60% of the missiles employed by Russia are of North Korean origin. Intelligence suggests that North Korea is constructing additional missile production facilities along its eastern coastline to bolster its supply of military material to Russia.
The Wall Street Journal concludes that Russia’s and North Korea’s growing military cooperation has drawn sharp criticism from the U.S. and its allies. Still, both nations are already considered significant threats, making efforts to deter them increasingly difficult.
Most Commented