North Korea’s Arms Factories Operating at Full Capacity for Russia’s War Efforts, Says South Korea

North Korea's arms factories are reportedly working at maximum capacity to produce weapons and ammunition for Russia, according to South Korea's Defense Minister.

Arms Production for Russia at 100% Capacity

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik disclosed that while most of North Korea's arms factories are operating at only 30% capacity due to material and power shortages, those dedicated to producing arms for Russia are running at full capacity. These factories primarily focus on manufacturing weapons and shells for Russia, indicating a strategic partnership between the two nations.

Significant Container Shipments to Russia

Since August, North Korea has dispatched a substantial number of containers to Russia, totaling 6,700 shipments. This volume of containers equates to space for 3 million rounds of 152 mm artillery shells or 500,000 rounds of 122 mm artillery shells. In return for these shipments, Russia has been providing North Korea with food supplies and essential raw materials required for munitions production.

Imbalance in Goods Exchange

South Korea's Defense Minister highlighted that Moscow is sending approximately 30% more goods to Pyongyang than it is receiving from North Korea. The majority of Russia's shipments consist of food items, which have helped stabilize food prices in North Korea and include other essential provisions.

US State Department's Findings

The US State Department has estimated that North Korea has sent around 10,000 container shipments to Russia since September. In a recent sanctions declaration, the State Department identified the stevedoring company managing Russia's Vostochny Port, which has allegedly received 7,400 shipments of munitions and military equipment from North Korea.

Complex Dynamics with Ukraine

Amidst these exchanges, tensions have risen with Ukraine, as the country has condemned Russia's reliance on supplies from North Korea. Ukraine's spy chief expressed concerns that Moscow's situation in the war would have been dire without North Korean assistance. Simultaneously, Ukraine has faced challenges in maintaining its own ammunition and equipment stocks due to wavering US support and internal political demands.

These intricate geopolitical dynamics underscore the interconnectedness and strategic maneuvers shaping global military landscapes.

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By: mloh@businessinsider.com (Matthew Loh)
Title: North Korea’s Arms Factories Operating at Full Capacity for Russia’s War Efforts, Says South Korea
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/north-korean-arms-factories-full-tilt-russias-war-south-korea-2024-2
Published Date: Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:42:05 +0000