Russia Transfers MiG-29 and Su-27 Fighters to North Korea in Exchange for Troop Contributions

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – North Korea is reportedly set to receive a number of MiG-29 Fulcrum and Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker fighter jets from Moscow, potentially as “compensation” for sending thousands of its troops to Russia to support its war effort in Ukraine.

The claim was made by Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM).

According to Paparo, Moscow and Pyongyang have already reached an agreement regarding the transfer of these fourth-generation fighter jets from Russia to North Korea.

Although these fighter jets are of an older fourth-generation model, they still possess significant combat capabilities, Paparo said.

The transfer of MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters to Pyongyang would undoubtedly enhance the capabilities of North Korea’s Air Force, which currently relies on outdated and aging Soviet-era aircraft.

At present, North Korea operates 18 MiG-29 fighters, 34 Su-25 fighters, and a variety of older MiG models, including the MiG-23.

BRIEF:

North Korea is reportedly set to acquire MiG-29 Fulcrum and Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker fighter jets from Russia, potentially as compensation for deploying thousands of North Korean troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), confirmed that Moscow and Pyongyang have reached an agreement on the transfer of the fourth-generation aircraft. Despite being older models, these jets are expected to significantly enhance North Korea’s air force capabilities, which currently rely on outdated Soviet-era aircraft.

The growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has drawn international attention, particularly following reports of North Korean troops stationed in Russia’s Kursk Oblast and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s visit to a Russian aircraft production facility in September.

In addition to the fighter jets, North Korea may be seeking advanced military technologies such as modern submarine systems and upgraded missile capabilities, further bolstering its military posture in the region.

Defense analysts note that Russia’s ability to deliver the aircraft may depend on the condition of its own fleet, impacted by the prolonged war in Ukraine and Western sanctions.

This deepening alliance underscores shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region as both nations face mounting international scrutiny.

However, many of these aircraft are believed to be non-operational.

International defense analysts have pointed out that the transfer of fighter jets from Moscow to Pyongyang is also contingent on the current condition of approximately 185 MiG-29 and Su-27 aircraft in the Russian Air Force.

Western observers report that the Russian Air Force has been significantly affected by the prolonged war with Ukraine, now in its third year, as well as stringent economic sanctions imposed by Western nations.

North Korea’s deepening military ties with Russia have attracted international attention.

During a November 30 meeting with a Russian defense delegation, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed Pyongyang’s “unwavering support” for Russia’s war in Ukraine.

This collaboration also includes the deployment of North Korean troops.

Ukraine has reported that between 10,000 and 12,000 North Korean soldiers have been stationed at observation posts and checkpoints in Russia’s Kursk Oblast.

North Korea is likely seeking more than just fighter jets in return for its military support to Russia.

According to Admiral Paparo, Pyongyang may also be aiming to acquire advanced military technologies, such as ballistic missile multiple re-entry vehicles, modern submarine systems, and upgraded air defense capabilities.

Such exchanges would significantly bolster North Korea’s military posture in the region.

In September 2023, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Production Association (KnAAPO) facility, located in Komsomolsk-on-Amur in Russia’s Far East.

This facility produces advanced fighter jets, including the Su-57 Felon, a next-generation fighter, and the Su-35 Flanker, a high-end multirole fighter that represents the pinnacle of single-seat combat aircraft in Russian service today.

Kim’s visit to KnAAPO has fueled speculation that advanced fighter jets might be delivered to North Korea.

At that time, Pyongyang was reportedly preparing to supply artillery shells and various other military systems to Russia. – DSA