The Russian Federation is experiencing a shortage of artillery ammunition in the war in Ukraine. However, this situation may be influenced by the relations between Russia and North Korea.
This was stated by the Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, during a telethon.
Budanov reminded that in Russia, the smuggling of components for various types of weapons is legalized at the legislative level. This is why sanctions could not completely halt Russia's access to them.
However, currently, Russia is also facing a shortage of artillery ammunition, particularly in calibers 152 and 122. Additionally, Russia is grappling with a lack of missiles for reactive salvo fire systems such as "Uragan," "Smerch," and "Grad."
Budanov is confident that during his visit to North Korea, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will negotiate further cooperation on missile technologies.
"Russia thinks it's normal to transfer certain missile technologies to North Korea. North Korea will clearly do a lot with these technologies. They have a serious human resource and defense capabilities that are incomparable with Russia's capabilities. They work more efficiently than Russians. Therefore, an increase in the supply of artillery weapons - it will definitely happen," said the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate.
However, he noted that due to the human resources and the large number of enterprises, North Korea can fully supply Russia with artillery weapons.
"There are many people in the enterprises. In North Korea, as unfortunate as it may be, they can boast about it. They have enough people and enterprises. The weapons are not modern; it's from the last century, but the production volumes are substantial. In fact, it's weaponry from the last century - but the shell will arrive, with an error, but it will arrive. We need to acknowledge this," he emphasized.
