During the massive shelling of Ukraine on 31 July, Russia used a KN-23 ballistic missile from the DPRK to target the city of Bila Tserkva. But the missile simply fell on the territory of Kyiv Region, probably after an explosion in the air.
This was reported by the Defense Express, citing interlocutors with knowledge of the matter.
According to the publication, debris with markings that correspond to the previously discovered remnants of KN-23 ballistic missiles, which Russia used to strike Ukraine in early 2024, were found at the site of the missile's crash.
The last recorded case of Russia's use of a North Korean missile was on 27 February. Thus, Russia has resumed using long-range missile weapons from the DPRK after a pause of five months.
Defence Express also adds that the North Korean ballistic missiles that Russia has received for strikes against Ukraine have a warhead with high explosive payloads with a capacity of up to 1000 kg of TNT equivalent. At the same time, the maximum launch range is up to 650 km.