DPRK capable of supplying Russia with up to 9.4 million 152-mm shells

DPRK capable of supplying Russia with up to 9.4 million 152-mm shells

Recent reports indicate that North Korea has transferred 20,000 containers of ammunition to Russia, potentially containing up to 9.4 million 152-mm shells

According to Defense Express, North Korea possesses approximately 200 ammunition plants, which have become crucial for the regime’s munitions production. The transshipment of these supplies was conducted through the port city of Rajin.

Despite these extensive transfers to Russia, North Korea maintains a significant stockpile of weapons and shells, sufficient for 1 to 3 months of military operations against South Korea. This information was reported by the South Korean news agency Yonhap and is based on assessments by Kang Dae-sik, a representative of the ruling People’s Power Party in South Korea, who cited data from the South Korean Ministry of Defense.

Kang also noted that, thus far, the supply of missiles to Russia has had a limited impact on North Korea’s own arsenals. However, should Moscow request further ammunition, it could hinder North Korea's preparations for potential full-scale hostilities against South Korea.

Another critical aspect of this situation is South Korea's acknowledgment of its limited intelligence regarding North Korea's munitions production capabilities. Many of North Korea's 200 ammunition factories are reportedly located underground, enhancing the survivability and secrecy of its military-industrial complex, Defense Express points out.

While it is believed that North Korean factories are operating at full capacity to produce munitions for Russia, specific details on production remain undisclosed.

According to Defense Express, this information not only highlights the extent of ammunition that Russia may receive from North Korea but also underscores South Korea's challenges in accurately assessing the North Korean regime's production capabilities.

Additionally, it has been reported that North Korea operates around 300 military plants with a workforce of approximately 500,000, yielding an estimated annual production value of up to $10 billion.