North Korea's fighter jet deal with Russia faces hurdles
In exchange for helping Russia in the war with Ukraine, North Korea is set to receive Russian MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets. Although these are more modern machines than those currently used in North Korean aviation, Reuben F. Johnson believes that Pyongyang may ultimately be dissatisfied with such a gesture.
Reuben F. Johnson is a former Pentagon consultant and an experienced military technology analyst. In his latest analysis, he stated that while the Su-27 and MiG-29 would be a significant addition to North Korea's aging air force, their use may simultaneously come with serious challenges.
North Korea counts on Russian aircraft
"Additional MiG-29s and/or Su-27s would be a plus-up in theory for the KPAF, but what may cause problems for this transfer of used aircraft to Kim is that the 4th-generation MiG-29s and Su-27s have not been in production for quite some time. The Su-27s have been replaced by the newer, more advanced Sukhoi fighters mentioned above, and the MiG-29 is now superseded by the MiG-35," noted Reuben F. Johnson.
According to the expert, problems may especially manifest during attempts at long-term operation and maintenance, due, among other things, to a shortage of spare parts.
"There are plenty of stories already out there about countries using older Russian aircraft having to come up with their own means of supporting these platforms," added Reuben F. Johnson.
Payment for weapons delivered to russia
The exact number of Su-27 and MiG-29 aircraft Pyongyang can expect remains a mystery. Although these planes are noticeably better than most currently in North Korea's air fleet, it was initially suggested that Moscow might deliver newer machines to its ally (speculation centered around the Su-35 and Su-30SM). It wasn't until the end of 2024 that several credible sources reported that the agreement would ultimately concern the Su-27 and MiG-29.
The delivery of Russian aircraft is intended as a form of gratitude for the aid North Korea has provided regarding the war in Ukraine. For months, this support has manifested in the transfer of large amounts of artillery ammunition, KN-23 (Hwasong-11A) ballistic missiles with a range of about 370 miles, as well as M1989 "Koksan" artillery systems and multiple rocket launchers.
Additionally, in the Kursk region of Russia, several thousand North Korean soldiers have already been deployed to join the fights against Ukrainians.
