Russia has struck a significant military deal with North Korea, agreeing to supply MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets in exchange for North Korean troop deployments to aid Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
The revelation was made by US Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) commander Admiral Samuel Paparo on December 10, highlighting the growing military cooperation between the two countries.
Admiral Paparo outlined that North Korea’s receipt of advanced Russian fighter aircraft will significantly bolster its air combat capabilities.
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As part of the agreement, North Korea is also likely to receive additional military equipment and technology from Russia, including ballistic missile reentry vehicles, submarine technologies, and advanced air defense systems.
Paparo noted that North Korean troops have already been deployed to combat zones, likely in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, although they have not yet engaged in active fighting. Additionally, a South Korean TV report from October 21 revealed that North Korean fighter pilots had been sent to Vladivostok for training on Russian aircraft before the deployment of ground troops in early October.
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These pilots were trained on Su-25 attack aircraft, which are already part of North Korea’s arsenal, signaling that the delivery of MiG-29 and Su-27 jets would further enhance the Korean People’s Army Air Force.
The partnership underscores an intensification of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, particularly following their Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which was signed in June 2024 and came into force on December 4.
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