Ukrainian HIMARS Strike Reportedly Damages North Korean Howitzers in Kursk
The Ukrainian 14th Regiment allegedly damaged three North Korean M1989 howitzers through a HIMARS strike. The assault occurred in Kursk Oblast, where Ukrainian drone operators coordinated targeting information, leading to the effective use of artillery rockets. Despite heavy casualties on both sides, Ukrainian forces continue to engage in drone operations.
Forbes reports that the Ukrainian 14th Regiment of Unmanned Aerial Systems possibly damaged three North Korean M1989 howitzers through a coordinated strike. The incident occurred on or before March 18, after Ukrainian drone operators identified three concealed 170-millimeter guns in treelines within Kursk Oblast, western Russia. They relayed the coordinates to a nearby battery, which utilized High-Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) to launch an attack.
The HIMARS battery launched at least one M30 rocket, which detonated above the treetops. This resulted in the dispersal of numerous grenade-sized submunitions on the M1989s and their crews, though assessing the exact damage remains challenging. The M1989 Koksan is a formidable North Korean self-propelled artillery system, weighing 40 tons, and is noted for its long-range capabilities, able to project conventional shells up to 40 kilometers and active-reactive rounds up to 60 kilometers.
Forbes indicates that North Korea has supplied Russia with hundreds of military vehicles, including the M1989 howitzers among other assets. Prior to this recent strike, Ukrainian forces had already destroyed at least one M1989 as well as several Bulsae-4 anti-tank launchers. There was also an incident wherein a Russian drone operator mistakenly damaged one of the North Korean air defense systems.
A significant Ukrainian force had held a salient in Kursk until last week, when a counter-offensive led by the Rubicon Center of Advanced Unmanned Systems targeted their primary supply line in Sudzha. Concurrently, a new wave of North Korean troops advanced on Kursk, incrementally confining the Ukrainian position. The remaining Ukrainian forces subsequently retreated, leaving behind critical equipment, although drone and artillery operations against Russian and North Korean forces persisted.
Forbes characterizes the situation in Kursk as a Pyrrhic victory for the opposing forces, suffering extensive casualties and losing numerous vehicles while forcing the Ukrainians to retreat. Although Ukrainian losses were considerable, they were deemed relatively lighter than those experienced by Russian and North Korean forces.
In summary, the Ukrainian 14th Regiment of Unmanned Aerial Systems reportedly inflicted damage on North Korean howitzers in a recent strike, highlighting the ongoing military tensions in the region. Although Ukrainian forces faced substantial challenges, their ability to continue conducting drone strikes underscores their resilience within the conflict. The events in Kursk demonstrate the significant toll taken on both sides, showcasing the complexities of modern warfare.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
