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New Shipment of North Korean M1989 Koksan Self-Propelled Howitzer to Russia.
A new shipment of military equipment from North Korea to Russia has recently been spotted, involving 170mm M1989 Koksan self-propelled guns, accompanied by what appears to be a concealed multiple-launch rocket system (MLRS). These artillery pieces, already present on the frontlines, mark a reinforcement of Russia's artillery capabilities in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Koksan is a North Korean self-propelled gun designed to offer long-range firepower. (Picture source: Social Media)
The delivery of these self-propelled guns is part of a growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. This partnership has been strengthened in recent months, particularly with North Korea exporting military equipment to Russia, including M1989 guns and 240mm MLRS systems. These deliveries have been motivated by the increasing demand for munitions and artillery systems due to the intensifying losses in Ukraine.
Reports indicate the delivery of about thirty of these guns, along with other weapon systems, to Russia, some of which have already been sent to the Kursk region. These artillery pieces allow Russia to compensate for the loss of equipment and increase pressure on Ukrainian positions.
Images circulating on social media confirm that the M1989 Koksan guns are already in use on the frontlines in Ukraine. The first confirmed appearance of these guns occurred in January 2025, when published photographs showed one of the M1989 units in action. This presence on the battlefield reflects the rapid integration of this equipment into Russian military operations and its effectiveness in the field.
Thanks to their long range, the M1989 Koksan guns can provide crucial support to Russian forces, particularly for saturation strikes against Ukrainian positions. These artillery pieces allow for long-range targeting, thereby reducing the need for direct engagement with Ukrainian forces.
The Koksan is a North Korean self-propelled gun designed to offer long-range firepower. It is equipped with a 170mm gun capable of firing projectiles over long distances, making it a key asset in long-range artillery strikes on the battlefield. This artillery system is used by North Korea and, more recently, by Russia.
The Koksan is designed to be mobile and operational in various environments. It can reach a speed of 50 km/h on roads, allowing the crew to move quickly across terrain to meet tactical needs. With a range of 500 km, it can travel long distances without requiring frequent refueling, which is a strategic advantage in expansive combat zones.
The artillery system is relatively light for its size, weighing 40,000 kg, which enhances mobility while maintaining some level of protection. The crew, consisting of two main members (a driver and a commander) along with seven additional soldiers, benefits from NBC (nuclear, biological, and chemical) protection to shield them from chemical or radiological threats. Additionally, the system offers protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters, providing basic safety during engagements.
In terms of dimensions, the Koksan measures 6.28 meters in length and 2.78 meters in width, giving it a relatively compact size for a gun of its class. This compactness, combined with its technical features, makes the Koksan an effective tool for modern artillery, capable of supporting operations while remaining protected and maneuverable in various types of terrain.
The arrival of M1989 Koksan guns in Russia raises several geopolitical concerns. Firstly, the growing involvement of North Korea in supporting Russia militarily could lead to an intensification of international sanctions against both countries, already subjected to numerous restrictions due to their respective military engagements. This dynamic heightens tensions in an already fragile region, particularly with the United States and its European allies.