**Russia’s War on Ukraine: North Korea Supplies Rare Mortars**
In a new development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, North Korea has supplied rare 140 mm and 60 mm mortars to Russian forces. According to reports by NK News, these unusual artillery pieces have been spotted alongside Russian troops operating in the Kursk Oblast.
**A New Era of Cooperation?**
North Korea has become Moscow’s primary supplier of artillery ammunition, as well as artillery systems and ballistic missiles. The reclusive state also sent thousands of troops to fight alongside Russians against Ukraine. This cooperation is a significant shift from the past, when North Korea was more focused on developing its own military capabilities.
**Visual Confirmation**
Photos shared by Russian military bloggers have provided the first visual confirmation of these rare mortars being used in combat. The 60 mm mortar, in particular, has been spotted with Russian paratroopers of the 76th Guards Air Assault Division operating in the Kursk area. These troops were seen in combat positions with the mortars.
**Expert Analysis**
Joost Oliemans, an expert in North Korean military systems, stated that these photographs are the first evidence that these weapons are now actively used in the Ukraine war. He noted that the 60 mm mortar may have been North Korea’s attempt to imitate NATO-standard weaponry. Russian propagandists claim the mortar’s effectiveness remains unclear.
**The Origin of the Weapons**
Oliemans also explained that the larger 140 mm mortar was developed by North Korea during the 1980s and 1990s. The first known appearance of this system was during a military parade in 1992 marking the 60th anniversary of the DPK armed forces.
**Rising Dependence on Unusual Calibers**
Militarnyi notes that despite the growth in DPK arms supplies, Russia remains challenged by logistical issues arising from its reliance on non-standard calibers. The introduction of such unique artillery pieces complicates integration with existing systems.
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