Russian Forces Once Again Use North Korean KN-23 Missiles in Recent Attack on Ukraine.

According to a report published by the Ukrainian defense news website "Defense Express," on August 6, 2024, Russia has once again deployed North Korean-made KN-23 ballistic missiles in its ongoing military operations against Ukraine. The missile strike took place on July 31, 2024, with the launch originating from Russian territory targeting Bila Tserkva in the Kyiv Oblast. However, the missile reportedly malfunctioned and fell in Kyiv Oblast, possibly due to an in-air explosion.
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Fragments of a KN-23 missile with identifiable markings were discovered at the site where the missile fell, matching previously identified debris from North Korean ballistic missiles. (Picture source debris missile: Defense Express)

Fragments recovered from the impact site bore markings identical to those found on previously identified KN-23 tactical ballistic missiles. These missiles, known for their precision and mobility, have been used by Russia in earlier strikes on Ukraine at the beginning of 2024. The KN-23 is often compared to the Russian Iskander-M missile and is capable of carrying various types of warheads, including nuclear ones. It boasts a range of up to 700 kilometers, making it a significant threat in the region.

Recent reports have surfaced suggesting a clandestine delivery of KN-23 missiles from North Korea to Russia. According to a report by the British TV channel BBC, North Korea has been supplying these advanced ballistic missiles to Russia as part of a strategic military agreement between the two nations. This cooperation highlights a growing military alliance that has been under international scrutiny. North Korea, facing severe economic sanctions, has been eager to strengthen its ties with Russia, providing military support in exchange for economic and political backing.

The delivery of KN-23 missiles to Russia represents a significant shift in military dynamics, as these weapons were previously exclusive to North Korean arsenals. This move could potentially alter the balance of power in the region, as Russia gains access to sophisticated missile technology that could be used against Ukraine and other adversaries.

The use of North Korean-made missiles by Russia has sparked international concerns, especially regarding the potential for increased military collaboration between Russia and North Korea. The United Nations, along with several countries, has expressed alarm over the proliferation of advanced missile technology and the implications of such an alliance on global security.

The KN-23 tactical ballistic missile is a crucial component of North Korea's modern missile arsenal. It reflects significant advancements in missile technology and poses a considerable threat to regional stability. Officially unveiled in 2019, the KN-23 has drawn comparisons to Russia's Iskander-M missile due to its advanced features and tactical capabilities.

One of the most notable features of the KN-23 is its mobility. The missile is launched from a mobile transporter-erector-launcher (TEL), which allows it to be moved and hidden quickly, making it difficult for adversaries to track and target. This mobility is complemented by the missile's solid-fuel propulsion system, which provides a rapid launch capability and reduces the time required for pre-launch preparations compared to liquid-fueled missiles.

The KN-23 is designed to evade missile defense systems effectively. Its advanced maneuverability allows it to change trajectory during flight, a capability often referred to as "quasi-ballistic" flight. This makes it harder for traditional missile defense systems to predict and intercept its path. The missile can perform low-altitude flight, flying at altitudes that can evade radar detection until the final stages of its trajectory. This feature increases its chances of reaching its target without being intercepted.

The KN-23's range is another critical aspect of its combat capabilities. It has an estimated range of approximately 400 to 700 kilometers (about 250 to 435 miles), allowing it to strike targets across the Korean Peninsula and beyond. This range enables North Korea to target strategic locations in South Korea and other neighboring countries, potentially reaching critical military installations and urban centers.

In terms of payload, the KN-23 can carry various types of warheads, including conventional, nuclear, and possibly chemical or biological warheads. This versatility in payload options enhances its strategic value and deterrence capability. The missile's ability to deliver a nuclear payload adds a significant layer of threat, as it could be used in both tactical and strategic scenarios.

The KN-23's precision is another standout feature. It is equipped with a guidance system that allows for high accuracy in hitting designated targets. Reports suggest that the missile's circular error probability (CEP) is relatively low, indicating a high probability of striking within a small radius of its target, thus making it a formidable weapon in targeted military strikes.

The military support of North Korea to Russia in the context of the war in Ukraine represents a significant shift in global geopolitical alliances, underscoring the deepening ties between two isolated states facing international sanctions and diplomatic pressure. This collaboration, highlighted by the alleged delivery of KN-23 ballistic missiles to Russia, demonstrates North Korea's willingness to extend its military influence beyond the Korean Peninsula and participate in conflicts with far-reaching implications.