North Korea and Russia to Develop Drones Under Strategic Defense Treaty

North Korea and Russia are set to collaborate on drone development as part of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, signed in June 2024, according to Japanese public broadcaster NHK. The new initiative, expected to begin in 2025, is reportedly Russian President Vladimir Putin’s response to Kim Jong Un’s support, which included sending nearly 12,000 North Korean troops to fight in Ukraine.

Military Collaboration and Drone Development

Russia, already experienced in manufacturing drones—ranging from large S-70 Okhotnik UCAVs to smaller reconnaissance and FPV drones—has been using these systems extensively in Ukraine. North Korea, on the other hand, has lagged behind in drone technology, relying on copycat models of Israeli drones.

However, Pyongyang has ramped up its drone program, with Kim overseeing tests of suicide drones in late 2024 and ordering their mass production. The anticipated joint production agreement with Moscow could significantly boost North Korea’s drone capabilities, aligning with its growing focus on aerial weapons.

Concerns Over Technology Transfers

While military cooperation between the two nations is expanding, Russia appears hesitant to assist North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, fearing increased geopolitical tensions with the United States and China. However, intelligence officials from the US and South Korea have warned that Russia may provide North Korea with advanced military technology and knowledge, further strengthening Pyongyang’s military capabilities.

North Korean Troops Return to Ukraine

After suffering heavy casualties, North Korean troops had reportedly withdrawn from Ukraine in January. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed in a Friday address that they have returned to the frontlines and are actively engaging in new assaults on Kyiv’s forces.

A Ukrainian special forces commander, in an earlier interview with Sky News, had predicted the withdrawal would be temporary, citing the high motivation of North Korean troops. He described their tactics as outdated and brutal, comparing them to World War II-style infantry assaults, with waves of up to 60 soldiers attacking on foot, making them easy targets and effectively serving as cannon fodder.

Casualty Estimates

Reports on North Korean troop losses vary:

• South Korea estimates around 300 dead and 2,700 injured.

• Ukraine’s government claims 4,000 casualties (killed or wounded).

• The United States places the number at around 1,200.

As Russia deepens its military ties with North Korea, the partnership could significantly impact the battlefield dynamics in Ukraine and geopolitical stability in East Asia.