North Korean artillery systems sighted in Russia amid new ties

The photos that appeared on Russian social media shed new light on the cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang. It is unknown when and where they were taken. It is also possible that the photos have been distributed as part of Russian propaganda.

The "Koksan" artillery system is a self-propelled howitzer with a calibre of 170 mm. The first units appeared in the 1980s, and the modernized version, designated M1989, was put into service around 1989. It is one of North Korea's most powerful artillery systems.

This system was designed to target South Korea's strategic objectives, including military and urban installations in the border zone and the Seoul area. With its long range and calibre, the "Koksan" can operate beyond the reach of many enemy military systems, making it difficult to neutralize.

The exact specifications of the M1989 "Koksan" are not fully disclosed. However, it is known that the range of the M1989 "Koksan" can be about 40 to 50 kilometres, depending on the type of ammunition, with a range of up to 60 kilometres when using special rocket-assisted projectiles (RAP). The howitzer is mounted on a tracked chassis, increasing its mobility and allowing for rapid movement, essential in military operations in difficult terrain.

Although it is not commonly used in direct conflicts, the "Koksan" has been observed in manoeuvres and military exercises organized by North Korea in recent years. This system has also appeared in Syria during the civil war, where government forces might have used it. Now, it has most likely been delivered to Russia, suggesting that North Korea has provided it to some allied countries.