Pyongyang (Agencies): North Korea has taken delivery of Russian air-defence systems, including at least one Pantsir short-range air-defence system, according to a United Nations (UN) Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT) report released on May 29, 2025.
The report, titled “Unlawful Military Cooperation including Arms Transfers between North Korea and Russia,” highlights Russia’s ongoing military support to North Korea, despite international sanctions. The Pantsir system, known for its self-propelled anti-aircraft capabilities, provides North Korea with a modernized air-defence system, significantly improving its ability to counter aerial threats.
The MSMT report, citing South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency, states that since November 2024, Russia has supplied North Korea with short-range air-defence systems, advanced electronic warfare equipment, and jamming technology via Russian cargo aircraft. Additionally, Russia has reportedly transferred operational knowledge to North Korean forces.
According to Janes World Armies, the Korean People’s Army (KPA) primarily relies on anti-aircraft guns and man-portable air-defence systems, many of which date back to the 1960s. The KPA also operates surface-to-air missiles, including the Hwaseong family of weapons, which are expected to be integrated into North Korea’s existing air-defence architecture alongside the newly acquired Pantsir system.
The MSMT report further alleges that Russia has assisted North Korea’s ballistic missile programs by providing data feedback on missile guidance systems, leading to improvements in missile accuracy and performance.
This revelation comes amid growing concerns over Russia-North Korea military cooperation, which violates multiple UN Security Council resolutions. The international community is expected to closely monitor further developments in Pyongyang’s military capabilities and Russia’s involvement in strengthening North Korea’s defence infrastructure.