North Korea’s Latest Military Developments: Anti-Aircraft Missile Test and Unwavering Support for Russia’s War in Ukraine

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the latest test-firing of the country’s latest anti-aircraft missile system on Thursday, March 20, which was reportedly deemed “highly reliable” and displayed a combat response considered to be “advantageous.”

The missile test, conducted under the supervision of Kim and North Korea’s Missile Administration, marks a significant step forward in North Korea’s defense capabilities.

The test involved the launch of a new anti-aircraft missile, which reportedly performed well in both its reliability and combat effectiveness.

Kim, who was joined by members of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea, expressed his satisfaction with the missile’s performance.

State media reports highlighted that the missile’s flight included a visible plume soaring into the sky, followed by a mid-air explosion.

Photographs released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) showed Kim observing the test and smiling, indicating his approval.

The test was part of a broader effort to examine the system’s performance, which North Korea had already begun to produce.

Experts believe that this test represents another important development in North Korea’s military modernization, signaling a commitment to advancing its defense systems.

The test could also be viewed as part of North Korea’s ongoing response to the United States and South Korea’s joint military drills, which North Korea often criticizes as preparation for an invasion. In fact, the missile test occurred on the same day that US and South Korean military forces concluded their annual “Freedom Shield” exercises.

North Korea frequently conducts its own missile tests in retaliation to such drills, underscoring its readiness to showcase its military capabilities in the face of perceived threats.

North Korea’s Strengthened Ties with Russia

Days following the missile test, Kim Jong Un also engaged in diplomatic talks with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, who was visiting Pyongyang.

During their meeting, as reported by KCNA Saturday, Kim expressed North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, reinforcing the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two countries.

This meeting came shortly after reports indicating that North Korea had sent additional troops to support Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, alongside supplying conventional weapons.

Kim reaffirmed North Korea’s commitment to backing Russia in its efforts to defend its “national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security interests.”

He also expressed solidarity with Russia on all major geopolitical issues, particularly the war in Ukraine.

Shoigu conveyed a message from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who extended his greetings to Kim and promised to give “utmost attention” to implementing agreements made during their previous summits.

The deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia has raised concerns among global observers.

Experts suggest that Russia is providing North Korea with economic and military assistance, including advanced weapons and technologies, in exchange for North Korea’s support.

South Korean intelligence has reported that North Korea deployed around 10,000 to 12,000 troops to Russia last year, and additional personnel may have been sent recently.

This growing relationship reflects a shift in global alliances, as both nations find common ground in countering the influence of the United States and its allies.

In North Korea, Russian Security Council Secretary laid a wreath at the memorial of Soviet soldiers.

Sergei Shoigu arrived in Pyongyang on 21 March for high-level talks with Kim Jong-un to strengthen ties with North Korea, which provides weapons and soldiers to aid Russia’s war… pic.twitter.com/72hUL0vc5c

— Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) March 21, 2025

Final Thoughts

North Korea’s latest missile test and Kim Jong Un’s diplomatic support for Russia’s war in Ukraine represent a dangerous escalation in both military and geopolitical terms. The successful test-firing of the anti-aircraft missile system marks a significant step in North Korea’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities, particularly as it continues to respond to perceived threats from the US and its allies. Meanwhile, North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine signals a deeper alignment between the two countries, further complicating international efforts to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.