Trading Troops for Drone Tech

Russian-North Korean UAVs set for mass production in 2025.

North Korea is developing drones with Russian technical assistance, according to multiple sources familiar with their relations. Mass production is expected to begin this year.

Kim Jong Un greets DPRK Defense Minister No Kwang Chol during a visit marking the 77th anniversary of the Korean People’s Army founding on Feb. 8, 2025. The visit comes as North Korea strengthens military ties with Russia, with reports indicating Pyongyang is preparing to mass-produce drones co-developed with Moscow. (KCNA)

The deal was reportedly struck in exchange for North Korean troops backing Russia in Ukraine. If true, Moscow sees Pyongyang as a long-term military partner, not just a manpower / munitions supplier.

Russia’s Limits: Drones, Not Nukes?

While Moscow expands military ties with Pyongyang, it remains hesitant to support North Korea’s nuclear ambitions. Analysts suggest Russia is wary of provoking the US or China.

If the report holds, Moscow’s caution hasn’t stopped it from locking into a military partnership with Pyongyang. This isn’t just a wartime convenience. The growing defense ties could influence the battlefield in Ukraine and upset the security balance in Northeast Asia.

Who’s Reporting It:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/north-korea-to-make-drones-co-developed-with-russia-media-says/ar-AA1yEi7A

https://unn.ua/en/news/north-korea-may-start-production-of-drones-jointly-developed-with-russia-as-early-as-this-year-nhk

https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/north-korea-to-make-drones-co-developed-with-1739007050.html

https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-polytics/3957763-north-korea-to-produce-strike-drones-codeveloped-with-russia-media.html

Kim Jong Un salutes with top military officials during a ceremony marking the 77th anniversary of the Korean People’s Army founding, Feb. 8, 2025. The North Korean leader inspected troops and addressed senior commanders amid ongoing military expansion. (KCNA)