Russia has entered into a significant military agreement with North Korea, marking a new chapter in their alliance amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. As part of the deal, Russia will send MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets to Pyongyang in exchange for North Korean troops to assist Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine. This arrangement, disclosed by Admiral Samuel Paparo at the Reagan National Defense Forum in December 2023, has heightened concerns in the international community about the growing military cooperation between the two nations.
North Korea Receives Fighter Jets for Military Aid
The agreement outlines that Russia will supply North Korea with “formidable, but early fourth-generation” fighter jets, though the exact number of aircraft is yet to be revealed. In return, approximately 12,000 North Korean soldiers are already stationed in Ukraine, although they are not yet in active combat. These troops are believed to be positioned in key combat zones, offering strategic assistance to Russian forces. Beyond aircraft, North Korea is reportedly seeking advanced military technologies, such as ballistic missile systems and modern submarine capabilities, which would significantly enhance its military strength.
North Korea’s air force, the Korean People’s Army Air and Anti-Air Force (KPAAF), has long been seen as one of the weakest branches of its military. The force relies on outdated Soviet-era jets, many of which are non-operational due to their age. However, the delivery of Russian MiG-29s and Su-27s could dramatically improve the capabilities of North Korea’s air force, addressing decades of stagnation. While it won’t rival the air power of regional competitors like South Korea, it represents a crucial step forward for Pyongyang.
This military partnership highlights Russia’s increasing dependence on its allies to support its war effort, including deals with other nations like Iran. For N. Korea, the acquisition of modern fighter jets marks a significant strategic move, possibly bolstering its military posture in the face of growing tensions with South Korea and other regional powers.
