Artillery has long been a deciding factor in modern warfare.
Its ability to dominate battlefields with sustained firepower has shaped countless conflicts.
But the quality and availability of such systems often dictate their effectiveness.
As Russia's war in Ukraine grinds on, its reliance on foreign artillery systems exposes the cracks in its military supply chain.
Far From Modern
Recent reports confirm that North Korea has stepped in to address Russia’s artillery shortages. Among the supplies delivered are M-1989 "Koksan" howitzers, a Cold War-era system, according to WP.
This artillery piece, designed for North Korea’s military needs, is now being repurposed to sustain Russia’s offensive.
The Koksan howitzer is far from modern. It features a massive 170 mm gun mounted on a chassis derived from the T-54/55 tank.
This system can fire shells weighing between 60 and 100 kilograms to distances of 40 kilometers. With rocket-assisted ammunition, the range extends to 60 kilometers.
While its accuracy is limited, each shell carries enough explosives to inflict substantial damage on impact.
These weapons were originally intended for use against Seoul, fired from fortified positions along the Korean Peninsula.
Their role in Ukraine is similar — delivering heavy firepower to suppress opposing forces.
Yet their shortcomings are apparent. The howitzer’s slow rate of fire — just one or two rounds every five minutes — limits its battlefield utility. It also requires a crew of six to operate, further complicating logistics.
For Russia, however, the Koksan is better than having no artillery at all.
Western artillery systems, such as Germany’s PzH-2000 and Poland’s Krab, outmatch the Koksan in precision and firepower. But with dwindling domestic production and depleted stockpiles, Moscow has little choice.
