Alliances between nations often shift to meet evolving needs.
Some partnerships, however, defy expectations, like the growing military and economic cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
While Moscow seeks resources to sustain its campaign in Ukraine, Pyongyang appears eager to modernize its own defenses.
This relationship, forged in mutual benefit, is beginning to bear striking results.
North Korea’s Largest Warship Takes Shape
North Korea recently offered a glimpse of its most ambitious naval project yet.
State media shared footage of Kim Jong Un inspecting a ship under construction at the Nampo shipyard in late 2024, according to WP.
This vessel, believed to be a missile frigate, could become the largest warship the isolated nation has ever built.
According to Naval News, the ship measures over 328 feet in length with a displacement of approximately 3,000 tons.
Analysts have drawn comparisons to Russia's Project 20386 frigate, an advanced design still incomplete in its home country.
If the similarities prove accurate, the North Korean version could feature vertical launch systems capable of deploying anti-aircraft and cruise missiles.
This marks a significant leap from the missile systems currently employed on Pyongyang’s fleet.
Speculation is growing that Russia has had a hand in this development. Ukrainian defense experts have suggested that Moscow might have transferred critical technologies to North Korea, including designs and technical support. This cooperation comes as Pyongyang provides large quantities of military supplies to Russia, including artillery shells, ballistic missiles, and heavy weaponry.
In recent months, North Korean multiple rocket launchers and heavy artillery pieces have been spotted in use by Russian forces in Ukraine.
Additionally, thousands of North Korean troops have reportedly been deployed to bolster Russian defenses in regions under Ukrainian attack.
Russia has also been returning the favor. Reports indicate Moscow has supplied air defense systems, satellite technologies, and possibly guidance on constructing advanced naval vessels.
Some speculate that even nuclear technologies have been shared.
