By Bulletin Times 
North Korea Joins Russia’s Efforts in Ukraine War, Supplying Heavy Weapons
In a dramatic shift in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, North Korea has stepped in to support Russia by supplying 50 self-propelled howitzers and 20 multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), according to Ukrainian intelligence reports. These weapons, including the 170mm M1989 howitzers and enhanced 240mm MLRS units, have reportedly been moved to Russia’s Kursk Oblast to aid military operations in recapturing lost territory.
North Korea’s Weapons in Action
The M1989 howitzer, capable of striking targets up to 60 kilometers away, and the upgraded MLRS—based on the Soviet-era BM-27 Uragan are at the forefront of this arms shipment. Earlier this year, North Korea tested the upgraded MLRS with precision-guided munitions, hinting at its ambition to showcase these systems in live combat scenarios. Ukrainian officials suggest these weapons are already being deployed on the battlefield near Kursk.
Troops on the Ground
Reports also indicate that North Korea has sent around 11,000 troops to Russia, many of whom are training with Russian forces in Kursk Oblast. According to the Pentagon, some of these soldiers are now actively involved in combat operations, marking a deepening of North Korea’s role in the conflict.
Concerns About Weapon Reliability
Despite the scale of North Korea’s support, questions remain about the quality of its military equipment. South Korean intelligence has previously reported that North Korea sent outdated, 1970s-era weaponry to Russia. It remains unclear if the newly delivered systems will fare better in real combat situations.
A New Phase in the Ukraine War
This growing partnership between Russia and North Korea introduces a new dimension to the war in Ukraine. With North Korea contributing both manpower and advanced weaponry, the geopolitical stakes continue to rise, leaving the world watching closely as the conflict intensifies.