North Korea has announced a sharp increase in artillery ammunition production amid large-scale arms supplies to Russia for its war against Ukraine, according to Defense Express.
Pyongyang claims that current shell output has reached the highest level in the country’s history.
This was reported by the state-run Korean Central News Agency following a visit by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to one of the country’s defense factories.
Official claims from Pyongyang tell record shell production
North Korean authorities claim the factory has doubled its previous ammunition production record and that current output is four times the average.
They also announced a large-scale modernization of the defense industry and an acceleration of military-sector development. However, analysts note that these figures are part of official state propaganda and are difficult to verify independently.
1 and 6 million shells and rockets to Russia
Despite doubts about exact production volumes, the fact of active weapons supplies from North Korea to Russia is confirmed by both Western and Ukrainian assessments.
According to available data, between September 2023 and April 2025, North Korea may have transferred between 1 and 6 million shells and rockets to Russia. Some of these supplies came from stockpiles, while Pyongyang is also simultaneously expanding its own production capacity.
Analysts note that the term “ammunition” may include not only artillery shells, but also mortar rounds, multiple rocket launcher (MLRS) rockets, and other types of munitions.
300 defense factories may be operating in North Korea
Experts estimate that around 300 defense factories may be operating in North Korea, employing approximately 500,000 people.
In addition to ammunition, North Korea is also supplying Russia with artillery systems and missile weapons, including M-1989 self-propelled artillery units, multiple launch rocket systems, ballistic missiles, and anti-tank systems.
Earlier, North Korean troops took part in the military parade on Red Square in Moscow for the first time on 9 May.
They marched as a separate column, becoming one of the most notable signals of this year’s event.
