Russia has deployed 60 North Korean KN-23 missiles against Ukraine, causing shock and awe in Kiev. The KN-23 missiles have limited accuracy, but remain a significant threat to civilians and infrastructure.
Russia has used about 60 North Korean KN-23 ballistic missiles in its war against Ukraine, according to Andriy Chernyak, a spokesman for Ukraine’s intelligence service.
“Their accuracy is not very high, as they are manufactured using outdated technologies,” Chernyak explained, adding that “however, they remain very dangerous missiles. The age of missile technology does not reduce their potential to cause harm or take lives.”
The Ukrainian official stressed that these missiles pose a significant risk to Ukraine’s industrial infrastructure, targeting key facilities that are critical to the country’s economy and defense.
Production of KN-23 ballistic missiles
In addition to the KN-23 missiles, Ukrainian intelligence has raised concerns about the possible supply of North Korean artillery ammunition to Russia.
A. Chernyak noted the possibility of millions of rounds of ammunition and artillery shells being transferred, citing observed cargo and container movements between North Korea and Russia.
“We cannot rule out the presence of North Korean artillery shells, either newly produced or from existing stocks,” he said.
The cooperation between Russia and North Korea highlights the limits to which Moscow is willing to maintain its military campaign, raising further concerns about the security implications for Ukraine and the region.
