Russia's Reward to North Korea for Troops Revealed

 

Russia Supplies North Korea with Advanced Weapons in Return for Military Support in Ukraine, Report Finds

Russia has provided North Korea with at least one Pantsir-class air defense system, along with a broader package of military equipment and technological support, in return for Pyongyang’s military assistance in Moscow’s war against Ukraine, according to a new intelligence-backed report.

The findings come from the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), a coalition formed by 11 allied nations—including the United States and South Korea—which draws on shared intelligence to track sanctions violations. This marks the MSMT’s first report detailing Russia and North Korea’s expanding cooperation in defiance of international sanctions.

Deepening Military Partnership

Since establishing a formal partnership in 2024, North Korea has sent around 11,000 troops to support Russian efforts in Ukraine, particularly in repelling cross-border operations. Pyongyang has also supplied Moscow with millions of munitions. In exchange, North Korea is now reaping tangible military benefits.

The MSMT report states that Russia transferred a Pantsir mobile air defense system to North Korea. The Pantsir system is capable of targeting aircraft, cruise missiles, precision-guided munitions, and drones, giving North Korea a significant upgrade over its aging air defense inventory.

“This deployment modernizes the DPRK’s air defense capabilities, surpassing its outdated Russian-origin systems and experimental domestic alternatives,” the report notes.

Missile Technology and Electronic Warfare Support

Beyond air defenses, Russia has reportedly shared advanced electronic warfare tools with North Korea, including jamming systems. The report also says Moscow is helping Pyongyang improve its ballistic missile programs by supplying technical feedback and data, resulting in improved missile guidance systems.

South Korea’s Institute for Defense Analyses (KIDA) estimates that North Korea has earned more than $20 billion from its support of Russia’s war effort—a major economic boost for the heavily sanctioned regime.

Putin and Kim Acknowledge Military Cooperation

In April, the leaders of both nations publicly acknowledged North Korea’s military involvement in Ukraine for the first time.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised the alliance with Russia, calling it “an honor” and describing the North Korean troops as “heroes” on a “sacred mission.” He also announced plans to erect a monument in Pyongyang to commemorate their service.

Russian President Vladimir Putin echoed Kim’s sentiments, stating, “The Russian people will never forget the valor of the North Korean special forces. We will honor them alongside our own soldiers as defenders of our shared freedom.”