A North Korean missile unit has begun moving to western Russia and could be equipped with as many as 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers for use against Ukraine. Ukrainian military intelligence says the deployment is heading to the Voronezh region, where the unit would fall under Russia’s 112th Missile Brigade, about 150 km from the border.
The package includes 40 KN-23 and KN-24 missiles already transferred, with the wider build-up potentially reaching the higher total. The unit is reported to comprise about 90 personnel, although the exact role of North Korean staff in Russian missile operations remains unclear. Talks on the final configuration are expected next month.
The deployment fits a broader pattern of deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, after earlier North Korean deliveries of missiles and personnel to Russia. Ukrainian officials say the Kremlin is increasing its dependence on North Korean ballistic systems as Ukraine faces shortages in air-defence ammunition and interceptors.