Ukraine successfully destroyed three North Korean howitzers in Kursk, utilizing drone operators and rocket artillery. These systems, provided to Russia as military aid, were previously camouflaged and equipped for protection against drones. This event is part of a larger conflict strategy following significant artillery losses on the Russian side.
According to the Unmanned Systems Forces Command, Ukraine recently destroyed three North Korean howitzers located in the Kursk region. These artillery systems were provided to the Russian military as assistance from North Korea and had been disguised among trees, fortified with protective measures against FPV drones, referred to as ‘grills.’
Ukrainian drone operators successfully identified the self-propelled howitzers, leading to targeted strikes from Ukrainian rocket artillery utilizing high-explosive and cluster warheads. This operation marks the second instance of targeting the M1978 Koksan artillery systems during the Russo-Ukrainian war. Previously, such systems were also destroyed in Luhansk by the 412th NEMESIS Regiment just a month prior.
The M1978 Koksan howitzer is notable for being the longest-range artillery system in North Korea’s arsenal, featuring a 170-mm gun capable of reaching distances of up to 60 kilometers. It was initially designed to threaten Seoul from north of the demilitarized zone. Currently, these weapons are employed by Russian forces in their military operations against Ukraine, partly in response to substantial artillery losses.
As reported earlier, by 16:00 on March 18, a total of 76 combat engagements had been recorded between Ukrainian defenders and Russian troops, with ongoing fighting concentrated in the Kursk region, where enemy assaults are particularly intense.
In conclusion, Ukraine’s strategic targeting of North Korean howitzers in the Kursk region highlights the ongoing dynamics of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. The successful identification and destruction of these artillery systems illustrate the persistent challenges faced by Russian forces in light of significant Ukrainian countermeasures. As battles continue across various fronts, the operational capabilities of both forces remain pivotal.
Original Source: www.ukrinform.net
