The launcher for the Hyunmoo-2 ballistic missile Photo: AFP
The latest news from North Korea and its cooperation with Russia on the frontline is deeply worrying. South Korean intelligence has confirmed that the DPRK has deployed 12,000 troops to Russia under the guise of “Buryats”, including 1,500 who have already been deployed. Such an increase in the presence of North Korean forces on the side of the Russian army in the war against Ukraine necessitates additional weapons for Ukrainian defenders. Given this, the question arises: what kind of tactical missiles should the Armed Forces of Ukraine request from South Korea in order to effectively destroy North Korean units on the battlefield?
Based on the available information, there are three main variants of South Korean missiles that can significantly enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
1. KTSSM-II is the South Korean analogue of ATACMS
The KTSSM-II is an advanced missile launched from the K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system. This missile is available in two versions:
- Block I with a range of up to 180 km and an anti-bunker warhead weighing 500 kg.
- TheBlock II has a range of up to 290 km and is equipped with a high-explosive warhead, the details of which have not been disclosed.
This type of missile can effectively hit both armoured vehicles and fortified positions of North Korean troops.
2. Hyunmoo-2 – South Korean “Iskander”
Hyunmoo-2 missiles are one of the best examples of South Korean military equipment, visually similar to the Russian Iskander missile system. There are two options:
- Hyunmoo-2A with a range of up to 300 km.
- Hyunmoo-2B with a range of 500-800 km.
Both missiles have a warhead weighing 997 kg, which makes it possible to effectively destroy large enemy groups and their equipment.
3. Hyunmoo-3 – long-range cruise missiles
Hyunmoo-3 cruise missiles can become one of the key tools in destroying North Korean troops and their logistics routes in Russia. Two options are available:
- Hyunmoo-3A with a range of up to 500 km.
- Hyunmoo-3B with a range of up to 1000 km.
With a warhead weight of 500 kg, these missiles can hit strategic targets deep behind enemy lines, including important transport hubs used to transfer troops from the DPRK.
Given the threat posed by North Korean troops on the side of the Russian Federation, Ukraine must strengthen its capabilities for an effective counterattack. The KTSSM-II, Hyunmoo-2 and Hyunmoo-3 missiles can be a decisive factor in the fight against new threats at the front. Turning to South Korea for these high-tech weapons is an opportunity for the Ukrainian Armed Forces not only to strengthen their positions but also to effectively destroy the enemy on the battlefield.
