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The debris from a missile that landed in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on January 2 came from a North Korean ballistic missile of the Hwasong-11 series, UN sanctions observers told a Security Council committee in a report seen by Reuters on Monday.
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Hwason-11 on mobile tractor erector launcher system, right Hwasong-11 near Kharkiv (Picture source: North Korean communication ministry-Left-, OSINT -Right-)
In the 32-page report, UN sanctions observers concluded that "the debris recovered from a missile that landed in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on January 2, 2024, originated from a Hwasong-11 series missile from the DPRK" and constitutes a violation of the arms embargo imposed on North Korea.
Formerly known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea has been subject to UN sanctions for its ballistic missile and nuclear programs since 2006, and these measures have been strengthened over the years.
Three sanctions observers traveled to Ukraine earlier in the month to inspect the debris and found no evidence that the missile had been manufactured by Russia. They "were not able to independently identify where the missile was launched from, nor by whom."
"The trajectory information provided by the Ukrainian authorities indicates that it was launched from the territory of the Russian Federation," they wrote in a report to the Security Council's North Korea sanctions committee on April 25.
"Such a location, if the missile was under the control of Russian forces, would likely indicate that it had been purchased by nationals of the Russian Federation," they said, adding that this would constitute a violation of the arms embargo imposed on North Korea in 2006.
The Russian and North Korean missions to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comments on the sanctions observers’ report.
The United States and others have accused North Korea of transferring weapons to Russia for use against Ukraine, which it invaded in February 2022. Moscow and Pyongyang have denied these accusations, but last year pledged to deepen their military relations.
At a UN Security Council meeting in February, the United States accused Russia of launching ballistic missiles provided by the DPRK against Ukraine on at least nine occasions.
UN observers stated that the Hwasong-11 series ballistic missiles were first publicly tested by Pyongyang in 2019.
The Hwasong-11 is likely similar in design and function to other missiles in the Hwasong series, which includes both short-range and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), Hwasong-11 is estetically close to the russian 9K720 Iskander
. These missiles are typically designed to be launched from mobile platforms, which provide strategic flexibility and survivability. The development of such missiles is part of North Korea's broader efforts to bolster its defense and project power regionally and, potentially, intercontinentally
Last month, Russia vetoed the annual renewal of the UN sanctions observers, who have been monitoring the enforcement of UN sanctions against North Korea on its nuclear and ballistic missile programs for 15 years. The current Panel of Experts’ mandate expires on Tuesday.
On the days of January. During the December 2 attack, the prosecutor's office of the Kharkiv region presented to the media fragments of the missile, stating that it was different from Russian models and that "it could be a missile provided by North Korea."
In response to the escalating situation, Operation "Crabe" was launched between January 30 and February 8, 2024, deploying tracked vehicles HT 270 for the first time to combat illegal gold mining. Previously, the 3rd Foreign Infantry Regiment (3 REI) relied on Bandvagn 206 (BV 206) vehicles. The decision to integrate HT 270 vehicles, acquired through the Union of Public Procurement Groups and militarized by Technamm, reflects a strategic shift in tackling the challenge posed by illegal mining activities.
The HT 270, equipped with a 169hp diesel engine and capable of carrying up to 16 infantrymen, marks a significant upgrade in mobility and firepower. Its deployment during Operation "Crabe" underscores the military's commitment to adapt and utilize advanced technology to combat illicit activities effectively. With a maximum speed of 58 km/h and a mount for a 7.62mm MAG 58 machine gun, the HT 270 enhances the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces in confronting the complex and evolving threat posed by illegal gold mining.
Despite these efforts, the persistence of illegal mining activities fueled by high gold prices and transnational networks underscores the need for sustained and coordinated action to address the root causes of the issue and safeguard the environment and local economies in French Guyana.
Read more: Russia testing north Korean ballistic missile in warzone
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Recently in Ukraine, a Russian Lancet drone, often referred to as a kamikaze drone, targeted a Bradley infantry fighting vehicle as reported by @raging545 on X on april, 30, 2024. Despite the attack, the vehicle’s advanced armor effectively prevented significant damage. This incident occurred amid escalating tensions in the region, testing modern defense technologies and underlining the increasing role of such equipment in conflict zones.
Images of a Bradley M2A2 (left), with its reactive armor (bottom right), after it was allegedly hit by a Russian Lancet drone (top right) (Picture source: X Channel @raging545)
The Bradley was equipped with Reactive Armor Tiles (BRAT) designed to counter threats like high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds and armor-piercing projectiles. During the attack, the explosive reactive armor (ERA) that surrounds the Bradley’s hull detonated upon impact with the Lancet drone, neutralizing the threat and effectively protecting the crew inside. This defensive capability, superior to that of standard Russian and Ukrainian infantry fighting vehicles, was clearly demonstrated during this engagement.
The M2A2 Bradley Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle (AIFV) is a significant upgrade from the earlier M2A1 model, with enhancements aimed at increasing survivability and combat functionality. Since its introduction to the U.S. Army in 1988, the M2A2 has received improvements such as internal armor protection for vital components, spall liners, and enhanced smoke screening capabilities. It is also equipped with a Cummins VTA-903 engine producing 600 hp to manage its increased weight due to additional armor on both the hull and turret.
In terms of armament, the M2A2 Bradley features an ATK Gun Systems Company M242 25 mm Bushmaster Chain Gun, a coaxial 7.62 mm M240C machine gun, and two TOW anti-tank missile launchers. Its design includes spaced laminate armor which provides protection against RPGs and 30 mm APDS rounds. The vehicle accommodates a crew of three plus six soldiers, and its technical features support effective operation across diverse combat scenarios, including NBC protection and thermal night vision capabilities.
The introduction of drones and First-Person View (FPV) technology has significantly impacted the dynamics of modern warfare, particularly evident in the Ukraine conflict. Drones, cost-effective yet potent, are crucial for surveillance, monitoring troop movements, fortifications, and civilian areas. FPV technology allows for precise control over drones, making them more effective in complex environments such as urban areas or dense forests. These drones also transmit real-time data essential for strategic decision-making but bring new challenges in airspace control and counter-drone strategies.
The use of drones in Ukraine indicates a shift from traditional military equipment to agile, technology-driven solutions, suggesting a future where asymmetrical warfare and advanced technology could enable smaller nations or non-state actors to challenge larger military forces. This evolution could fundamentally change the global military landscape.
Read more: Ukrainian M2A2 Bradley AIFV Endures Russian Lancet Kamikaze Drone in Ukraine
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In Munich, on April 29, 2024, KNDS Deutschland, KNDS France, Rheinmetall AG, Rheinmetall Landsysteme, and Thales expressed their enthusiastic support for the recently concluded agreement between the French and German governments on the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), which was reported on by Army Recognition on April 29, 2024.
Read more: France and Germany Collaborate to Create MGCS New Combat Platform
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The Brazilian Army has officially chosen the ATMOS self-propelled howitzer system, developed by the Israeli company Elbit Systems, as the winner of its VBCOAP 155 SR competition, aimed at modernizing its artillery fleet with high-tech equipment. This announcement was first revealed by SA Defensa on their X account on April 29, 2024, highlighting the importance of this strategic decision for Brazil.
Read more: Brazil selects Israeli company Elbit Systems' ATMOS 155mm self-propelled howitzer
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Elbit Systems announced on April 30, 2024, the acquisition of a contract valued at approximately $50 million for its air defense system, "Red Sky"™, from an undisclosed international client. The contract spans two years, marking a milestone for the Israeli defense technology sector.
Read more: Elbit Systems Israeli Company Secures Contract for Red Sky Air Defense System
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In the Belgorod region of Russia, approximately 9 km west of the strategic military logistics center of Alexeyevka, construction of a new air base is underway near the Ukraine border, as reported byRedIntelPanda. Online-accessible satellite images reveal significant progress, with runway leveling mostly completed by the onset of winter, and recent developments showing ongoing paving work as of April 29, 2024.
Read more: Satellite Images Revealed Secret Russian Air Base Emerges near Ukrainian Border
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According to a report from Inside Defense, published on April 26, 2024, the US Marine Corps plans to increase its procurement spending on air defense systems for fiscal year 2025, allocating $111 million to the Medium Range Intercept Capability (MRIC) program.
Read more: US Marines Are Nearing Acquisition of New Air Defense System
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Ukraine is suspected of having shot down a Tu-22M, a Russian strategic bomber, as well as two A-50, long-endurance reconnaissance aircraft, using S-200 missiles over fifty years old. This feat raises the hypothesis of a new improvement of old Soviet-made S-200 air defense missile system.
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Germany announced on April 29, 2024, that it increased its military support to Ukraine by delivering a wide range of defense equipment, including an additional Skynex air defense system, following a previous delivery. This system provides relevant protection to Ukraine, particularly in countering drone saturation attacks and swarm attacks. The German aid comes at a time when Ukraine continues to face challenges in its war against Russia.
Read more: Germany confirms delivery of one additional Skynex air defence system to Ukraine
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On April 26, 2024, MacDefense Philippines reported through its X account that the Philippine Army received three Chinese-made Norinco GQL-111 vehicle-launched bridges from China. These bridges were the first mobile bridges in service before the arrival of Israeli Merkava AVLBs and WFEL DSBs. This equipment was provided during the term of former President Duterte, according to a member of the MDP community.
Read more: Philippine Army Receives Three Chinese-Made Norinco GQL-111 Vehicle-Launched Bridges
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The Operational Energy Services of the French Ministry of Armed Forces has issued a tender for at least 380 tanker trucks capable of operating on all terrains during military operations and refueling frontline and support vehicles as closely as possible, while ensuring adequate crew protection. Several European companies proposed projects meeting these requirements, but it appears that the DGA, which oversees such projects, has chosen the proposal from the French manufacturer responsible for constructing and delivering vehicles under the Scorpion program.
Read more: ARQUUS won contract with French army for supply tanker trucks
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On April 24, 2024, the US company Electra announced a partnership with the US Navy to develop a ship-based electric short take-off and landing (eSTOL) aircraft, under a contract facilitated by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR). This initiative is intended to integrate Electra’s hybrid-electric eSTOL technology into US Navy logistics, particularly for operations in contested areas where traditional logistics are constrained.
Read more: US Navy partners with Electra to develop electric short takeoff and landing aircraft