North Korea receives Russian jets, but challenges loom ahead
In exchange for its support in the conflict with Ukraine, North Korea is set to receive Russian MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets. Although these aircraft are more modern than those currently used in North Korea's air force, Reuben F. Johnson suggests that Pyongyang might ultimately be dissatisfied with this gesture of gratitude.
Reuben F. Johnson is a former Pentagon consultant and an experienced military technology analyst. In his latest analysis, he stated that the Su-27 and MiG-29 would significantly bolster North Korea's aging air force, but their use may be linked to serious challenges.
North Korea counts on Russian aircraft
"Additional MiG-29s and/or Su-27s would be a plus-up in theory for the KPAF, but what may cause problems for this transfer of used aircraft to Kim is that the 4th-generation MiG-29s and Su-27s have not been in production for quite some time. The Su-27s have been replaced by the newer, more advanced Sukhoi fighters mentioned above, and the MiG-29 is now superseded by the MiG-35," noted Reuben F. Johnson.
According to the expert, issues might arise, especially with long-term use and maintenance, largely due to a shortage of spare parts.
"There are plenty of stories already out there about countries using older Russian aircraft having to come up with their own means of supporting these platforms," added Reuben F. Johnson.
Payment for weapons supplied to Russia
It remains unclear how many Su-27 and MiG-29s Pyongyang can expect. Although these aircraft are noticeably better than most currently in North Korea's air force, it was initially suggested that Moscow would provide its ally with more modern machines (with speculation about Su-35 and Su-30SM). It was only in late 2024 that several credible sources reported that the deal would ultimately involve Su-27 and MiG-29.
The delivery of Russian aircraft is to be a form of gratitude for the support that North Korea is giving in connection with the conflict in Ukraine. For months, this has included the transfer of large amounts of artillery ammunition, KN-23 ballistic missiles (Hwasong-11A) with a range of about 370 miles, as well as M1989 "Koksan" artillery systems and multiple rocket launchers.
Additionally, several thousand North Korean soldiers have already been deployed to the Kursk region of Russia to engage in battles with Ukrainians.
