On May 29, a report from the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) confirming Russia’s use of North Korean ballistic missiles in its attack on Ukraine was released.
According to Voice of America (VOA), the DIA revealed in its recent declassified report that there are many similarities between the photos of North Korean missiles captured during Kim Jong Un’s inspection as the General Secretary of the North Korean Workers’ Party and the remnants of the SRBM discovered in Ukraine last January. Similarities were specifically found in the front and rear engines, cable trays, and missile connectors. Notably, both missiles’ front engines have eight joints along the outer axis and a circular ignition device with 20 holes attached.
The photos released in the report show a matching number of joints and holes with a similar shape.
The shape of the rear engine is also identical, with a trumpet-shaped cylindrical object protruding outward. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the cable trays and connectors running along the missile’s body were in the same location.
VOA pointed out that the similarities found between the two missiles make it almost certain that the missile remnants found in Ukraine are from North Korea.
The report stated, “The analysis results show a more evolved and strengthened relationship between North Korea and Russia.”
This missile was used by Russia to attack the northeastern region of Kharkiv, Ukraine, on January 2. The Ukrainian authorities obtained its remnants for investigation.