North Korean Rocket Systems in Russia Face New Drone Threats

Drone Strikes on North Korean Rocket Systems

News Summary

The military conflict in Ukraine reveals vulnerabilities in North Korean rocket systems supplied to Russia. Recent drone strikes by Ukrainian forces demonstrate the effectiveness of advanced FPV drones against older artillery. The risks of outdated technology are highlighted as these legacy systems come under fire, suggesting a shift in modern warfare dynamics. As Ukraine progresses with drone operations, concerns grow over North Korea’s military aid relying on antiquated weaponry that is susceptible to new forms of attack.

North Korean Rocket Systems in Russia Face New Drone Threats

Amid the ongoing military conflict in Ukraine, fresh videos are emerging that reveal the vulnerability of North Korean rocket systems supplied to Russia. Operated by troops at the Russian frontlines, these older artillery systems are coming under fire from advanced drone technology, specifically the first-person view (FPV) drones employed by Ukrainian units. What’s unfolding might be a game-changer in the realm of modern warfare.

Combat Videos Capture Drone Strikes

Combat footage shared by Ukrainian forces shows precise drone strikes targeting North Korea’s 107mm Type-75 multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS). One such video illustrates a drone accurately hitting a Type-75 launcher that was actively loaded with multiple rockets at the time. The powerful strike renders the launcher inoperative, sending explosive debris into the air as the full potential of the weapon is realized.

These strikes, showcased by the 429th “Achilles” Separate Unmanned Systems Regiment, demonstrate how drone technology is becoming a formidable opponent for traditional artillery systems. The Type-75 MLRS isn’t a modern piece of hardware; it’s a relic of the past, with its twelve tubes and rockets very much exposed. This makes it incredibly vulnerable, especially when faced with the high-tech precision of FPV drones.

Consequences of North Korea’s Military Support

Nikita—a Ukrainian National Guard unit—has surfaced multiple videos showing successful drone operations against these North Korean launchers. In one recent clip, a drone is shown deploying munitions directly onto another Type-75, confirming that the North Korean military aid to Russia may not be as solid as initially thought.

North Korea has supplied Russia with hundreds of various artillery pieces, including not just the Type-75, but also the M1991 MLRS and several types of howitzers and modern launchers like the KN-09. However, most of this gear utilizes Soviet or Chinese technology, which aligns the North Korean systems closely with what Russian forces are already using in Ukraine.

The Perils of Outdated Technology

Historically, the Cold War-era BM-21 Grad rocket system, heavily employed in this ongoing conflict, has been a classic representation of older military tech. It requires manual loading, which leaves rockets exposed to threats like drone strikes. As we’ve seen in the latest combat footage, this vulnerability is being exploited effectively by Ukrainian forces.

In contrast, many modern Western systems, such as the M142 HIMARS, utilize enclosed and containerized munitions, which offer better protection against smaller explosions. The stark difference in design could be a key factor in why older systems like the Type-75 are now seen as liabilities on the battlefield.

North Korea’s Evolving Defense Strategies

Although recent military parades in North Korea have showcased newer rocket launchers featuring larger tubes designed for added protection, the fundamental technology still draws from older methods. This raises genuine questions concerning their effectiveness, especially given the current advancements in drone warfare.

The situation evokes a clear message about the limitations of providing military support based on outdated artillery equipment. As Ukraine continues its drone operations against these North Korean systems, it emphasizes that even longstanding military partnerships can falter in the face of rapid technological growth in warfare. The irony is palpable—North Korea, known for its military prowess, now faces potential setbacks due to its reliance on older technologies susceptible to modern methods of attack.

As the conflict unfolds, it will undoubtedly be interesting to see how both forces adapt. Will North Korea ramp up its military innovations, or will its legacy systems continue to crumble under the weight of new threats? One thing’s for certain—the future of warfare looks decidedly different than it did just a few years ago.