Ukrainian forces possibly damaged three North Korean howitzers in a recent strike. Utilizing HIMARS, they targeted the artillery systems identified by drone operators. The M1989 Koksan is a significant addition to North Korea’s military resources supplied to Russia, while Ukraine faced a strategic retreat after intense conflict in Kursk, resulting in considerable losses for both sides.
On March 18, the Ukrainian 14th Regiment of Unmanned Aerial Systems successfully executed a strike that may have damaged three M1989 howitzers, known as Koksans, belonging to North Korea. The drone operators located the howitzers for a nearby Ukrainian battery equipped with High-Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), which launched at least one M30 rocket. This rocket, after exploding above tree level, released hundreds of submunitions targeting the artillery pieces and their crews.
The M1989 Koksan is a heavy self-propelled artillery system that weighs 40 tons and has a 170-mm caliber, enabling it to fire conventional shells up to 40 km and specialized rounds up to 60 km. Reports indicate that North Korea has supplied Russia with various military equipment, including these howitzers and additional support vehicles.
Prior to this attack, Ukrainian forces had already destroyed one M1989 and several Bulsae-4 anti-tank launchers. Notably, there was also an incident in which a Russian drone mistakenly targeted and destroyed a North Korean air defense system. Amid these developments, a major Ukrainian force faced significant pressure from a fresh advance by North Korean troops in Kursk, leading to a strategic retreat while leaving behind equipment.
The situation in Kursk is described as a Pyrrhic victory for Russian and North Korean forces, indicating that they suffered heavy casualties—tens of thousands—and lost hundreds of vehicles while compelling Ukrainian forces to withdraw. Ultimately, although the Ukrainian forces experienced losses, their numerical disadvantage was considerably less severe by comparison.
In summary, the Ukrainian strike against North Korean howitzers reflects ongoing military operations and challenges faced by both sides in the conflict. Despite substantial losses incurred in the Kursk area, Ukraine maintains operational capabilities through drone and artillery strikes. The dynamics of support between North Korea and Russia continue to evolve, affecting the strategic landscape as the conflict progresses.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
