Russian media channels recently published a video claiming to show a successful strike on a “Western-made radar system” allegedly operated by Ukrainian forces.
However, defense analysts have identified the destroyed system as a rare North Korean surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, possibly in Russian service. The footage, originally shared by the Russian channel “Povernutye na Voynie,” appears to document a friendly fire incident.
The air defense system shown in the video closely resembles a North Korean analog of the Russian Tor short-range SAM system, known by NATO as the SA-15. This particular vehicle, mounted on a semi-trailer with missiles positioned in its middle section, had not been previously identified in the conflict, raising questions about its origin and operational deployment.
Analysts believe the vehicle was misidentified, potentially by the drone operator responsible for the strike. The incident highlights the challenges of identifying advanced air defense systems in the fog of war.
Earlier today, Russian channels posted a video purportedly showing a strike on what was claimed to be a Ukrainian “Western-made radar system.”
Just one catch: it appears to have been a friendly fire incident on a rare North Korean SAM system in Russian service. pic.twitter.com/xvX8ozjfQ1
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) January 12, 2025
The North Korean SAM system, designed to counter various aerial threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and precision-guided munitions, would have been a valuable asset for protecting military and government installations. This specific SAM system, still lacking a widely recognized designation, was first publicly displayed during a parade in Pyongyang in 2020, marking the 75th anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea.
If confirmed, the presence of a North Korean SAM system in Russian service would mark a rare appearance of North Korean military hardware in the ongoing conflict, raising questions about the depth of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Friendly fire incidents, while not uncommon in high-pressure environments, can damage operational credibility and morale.