North Korea ramps up missile production for Russia's Ukraine war effort
- Satellite images reveal construction of a new assembly building at the February 11 plant in Hamhung, North Korea.
- The expansion coincides with reports of North Korea supplying significant artillery systems to Russia amid renewed combat in Ukraine.
- Experts interpret these developments as North Korea's effort to increase missile production capabilities, likely for Russian use.
North Korea is reportedly expanding a weapons manufacturing complex known as the 'February 11' plant, located in Hamhung, which assembles short-range missiles potentially provided to Russia for use in Ukraine. Satellite images taken in October reveal ongoing construction, including a new assembly building that is approximately 60-70% the size of the existing facility, and improved access to underground parts of the complex. The developments come amid heightened accusations from South Korea's spy agency suggesting that Pyongyang has sent a substantial amount of artillery and conventional arms to Russia, replenishing its stockpiles as Moscow continues its military activities in Ukraine. The North's cooperation with Russia is further underscored by a mutual defense treaty ratified in June, indicating military support in times of war.