Irs Form 940 2006: Fill & Download for Free

Other than its missile and nuclear research and development efforts, North Korea uses very rudimentary equipment both in its military and R&D. Its computers look like something out of the Sixties when computing power equaling what a laptop today has took up a good part of a small room. The Army uses basic military hardware technology that existed from WW II; so whilst it has a good many long range artillery and rocket tube launchers, their technology is not much different than from what Nazi Germany used.They have a large standing army, but it is ill-equipped and poorly fed; it is known for DPRK regular army troops to occasionally cross over the river separating China and North Korea to raid Chinese farms and villages along the border for food. One an only wonder how prepared the army would be to go into prolonged battle if they don’t have enough food to feed them during peacetime, how would they be able to supply them with sufficient calories to sustain extended combat? Soldiers burn up to (and over) an average need of at least 3500 calories a day under the stress of war and the rigors of combat.The North Korean navy uses old antiquated designed diesel-electric submarines which constantly fail at sea and need to surface to be towed to port. Recently one went missing and was never found. It has no blue eater naval capabilities and primarily operates as a coastal force.While South Korea has the most advanced destroyers with the US AEGIS missile defense system, modern missiles, automatic radar-tracking 30 mm gatling guns, deck mounted cannon and sophisticated sonar and anti-submarine capabilities. The South Korean Navy also regularly trains with the US Navy and attends RIMPAC every summer off Hawaii. South Korea also utilizes a sophisticated sonar buoy and underwater sensors to track both submarine and surface vessels within its maritime borders.Insofar as South Korea’s Air Force, they are highly trained and very proficient aviators with some of the best US fighters ever made—a fact attested to in that they have never lost a dogfight in combat.Whilst the North Korean Air Force is even more pitiful and is still comprised of ancient Soviet and Chinese “MiG-17 and MiG-18 fighters although the bulk of its current fighter aircraft are the MiG-21 and yet it operates more modern and fairly capable MiG-23 and MiG-29 fighters too. The KPAF's most numerous fighter is the MiG-21, which is somewhat obsolete but still a worthy foe in air-to-air combat, if maintained properly and crewed by experienced pilots.” Here, the salient words are “if maintained properly” , being as old as their air fleet is, parts are difficult to come by and the cost of maintaining an old aircraft to combat readiness status is expensive and time-consuming. The latest analysis of South Korea is that up to half, if not more, of North Korea’s “paper” air force, are grounded and inoperational or unfit for any combat role whatsoever. For the best example of North Korea’s capability in the air—since control of the modern battlefield environment starts with control of the skies, I borrowed this detailed breakdown from Wikipedia….Korean People's Army Air ForceFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia(Redirected from Korean People's Air Force)Korean People's Army Air Force조선인민군 공군KPAAF roundelFounded20 August 1947CountryNorth KoreaSize110,000 personnel940 aircraft[1]Part ofKorean People's ArmyGarrison/HQPyongyangAnniversaries20 AugustEngagementsKorean WarVietnam War[2]CommandersCommander-in-chiefGeneral Ri Pyong-cholNotablecommandersVMAR Cho Myong-rokCol. Gen. Oh Gum-cholInsigniaEnsignAircraft flownAttackSu-7, Q-5, Su-25BomberIl-28FighterF-7B, F-5, F-6, MiG-21,MiG-23, MiG-29HelicopterMil Mi-8, MD 500TrainerL-39, Shenyang FT-2TransportIL-76, An-24, An-2The Korean People's Army Air Force (Chosŏn'gŭl: 조선인민군 공군; Hanja: 朝鮮人民軍 空軍) is the appellation of the unified aviation forces of North Korea. The KPAF is the 2nd largest branch of the Korean People's Army comprising an estimated 110,000 members.[3]It possesses 940 aircraft of different types; mostly of Soviet and Chinese origin. Its primary task is to defend North Korean airspace.[4]When the People's Army was forged with Soviet assistance, the aviation unit became its air force branch on August 20, 1947. North Korea has celebrated August 20 as Air Force Foundation Day ever since.Contents[hide]1History2Organization2.1Operational doctrine3Personnel3.1Annual flying hours4Structure4.1Air bases5Aircraft5.1Current inventory6Aircraft subtypes and capabilities6.1Fighters6.2Bombers6.3Ground attack aircraft6.4Attack helicopters6.5Special Forces6.6Unmanned Aerial Vehicles6.7Armament7Air Defense7.1Equipment8Capabilities9Ranks and uniforms9.1Ranks9.1.1Enlisted9.1.2Officers9.1.3Marshals9.2Uniforms10Defections11See also12References13External linksHistory[edit]Kim Il-sung set up the Aviation Association branches in Pyongyang, Sinuiju, Chongjin and other parts of the country in 1945. In December 1945 he merged them into the Aviation Association of Korea. The air force became a separate service in 1948. The KPAF incorporates much of the original Soviet air tactics, as well as North Korean experience from the UN bombings during the Korean War.The KPAF has on occasion deployed abroad to assist fellow socialist states, with a North Korean flight of MiG-21s deploying to Bir Arida to help defend southern Egypt during the Yom Kippur War.[5]In 1990-91, North Korea activated four forward air bases near the DMZ.Organization[edit]Operational doctrine[edit]North Korean Ilyushin Il-10at Kimpo International Airport,South Korea, on 21 September 1950.Given North Korea's experience with heavy U.S. bombardments in the Korean War, its aim has been mainly to defend North Korean airspace. The heavy reliance on fighter aircraft, Surface-to-air missile andAnti-aircraft warfare reflects this. However, since nearly all of North Korea's aircraft inventory consists of aging and obsolete Soviet and Chinese aircraft, the primary goal of the air force may have changed in the last years to providing ground support for the land forces and threatening South Korean population centers and military targets with a massive air attack.In this way, North Korea could try to maintain military parity with South Korea by using its air force as a deterrent, much like its ballistic missiles, instead of trying to maintain a technological parity in aircraft types for individual air-to-air roles. This seems to be confirmed by the recent redeployment of 120 mostly obsolete fighters, bombers and transport aircraft closer to the demilitarized zone, even though 440 modern aircraft are also based near the DMZ. Keeping in mind the production, storage and use of a vast chemical, biological and possibly nuclear weapons inventory by North Korea, this change in doctrine is even more significant.Personnel[edit]From 1978 to 1995 General Jo Myong-rok was the commander of the air force. In October 1995 he was promoted to vice-marshal and appointed Chief of the KPA General Political Bureau and a member of the Korean Workers' Party Central Military Committee. His place as commander of the Air Force was taken by Colonel General Oh Gum-chol.Annual flying hours[edit]The number of annual flying hours (AFH) per pilot is, like almost every other aspect of the KPAF, very hard to estimate. Most sources on the subject abstain from giving hard numbers, but all of them estimate the average annual flying hours per pilot as being 'low' to 'very low'. The number of annual flying hours is of course very important in estimating the individual skill and experience of the pilots of an air force: more annual flying hours suggests better trained pilots. Most estimates present a rather grim picture: AFH per pilot for the KPAF are said to be only 15 or 25[6]hours per pilot each year - comparable to the flying hours of air forces in ex-Soviet countries in the early 1990s. In comparison, most NATO fighter pilots fly at least 150 hours a year. Ground training, both in classrooms, on instructional airframes or in a flight simulator can only substitute for 'the real thing' to a certain degree, and the low number of modern jet trainers in the KPAF arsenal points to a very modest amount of flying time for the formation of new pilots.There are a number of possible explanations for the low AFH: concern over the aging of equipment, scarcity of spare parts - especially for the older aircraft - difficulties with worn airframes, fear of defection and the scarcity of fuel are all contributing factors. It is very likely however that some 'elite' pilots and regiments receive considerably more flying hours. Especially those equipped with modern aircraft and tasked with homeland defence - like the 57th regiment flying MiG-29s and the 60th regiment flying MiG-23s - are receiving multiple times the average AFH per pilot; however, aging equipment, the scarcity of fuel and the general economic crisis in the DPRK will affect these regiments as well, and keep their AFH low compared to NATO AFH.AFP reported on January 23, 2012 that the KPAF had conducted more flight training than average in 2011.The Chosun Ilbo reported on March 29, 2012 that the KPAF had dramatically increased the number of flights to 650 per day.[7]Structure[edit]Following is a list of bases where North Korean Army Air Force aircraft are permanently based.[8][9]Air bases[edit]Northwestern areaUiju Airfield (40°08′59″N 124°29′53″E)24th Air Wing (Transport) - operating transport aircraft, Il-28 or Harbin B-5s and disassembled MiG-21sPanghyon South Highway StripAir Wing- operating MiG-17F/J-5, F-5/FT-5Taechon Airfield5th Air Transport WingKaech'on Airfield - Headquarters, 1st Air Combat Command. 35th Air Fighter Wing (MiG-19/J-6). Fighter base with 2500 m runway.Pukch'ang Airport - 60th Air Fighter Wing (1 ACC) (MiG-23ML/MiG-23UB/MiG-15UTI); Air Transport Wing (5 TD) (H500D/H500E/500D). This base was where most new Soviet fighter aircraft were delivered during the 1960s.[10]Samjangkol - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Mi-2)Sunchon Airport - 55th Air Fighter Wing (1 ACC) (Su-25K/Su-25UBK/Su-7BMK)(MiG-29/MiG-29UB)[11]Kanch'on - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Mi-4/Z-5/Mi-8/Mi-17/Mi-2)West Coast and Pyongyang area (Pyongyang is also the location of HQ, KPAAF)Onchon Airport - 57th Air Wing (1 ACC) (MiG-19/J-6/MiG-29/MiG-29UB)Hwangju Airfield - Headquarters, 3rd Air Combat Command. 56th Air Fighter Wing(3 ACC) (MiG-21U/MiG-21PF/J-7)Kwail Airport/Pungchon(38°25′31″N 125°01′07″E)Taetan Airfield - Air Fighter Wing (3 ACC) (Mi-2)Pyongyang Sunan International Airport - Special Service Air Transport Wing (KPAAF-CAAK) (Air Koryo) (Tu-134B/Tu-154B-2/Il-62M/Il-76MD/Il-18/An-24/An-148)Mirim Airfield - This airfield served as a light transport base and closed sometime in the 1990s, now used as a KPA training facility.DMZ areaChunghwa - Headquarters, Air Defense and Combat CommandKoksan Airport - 86th Air WingHyon-ni Airfield - Air Wing (F-5/FT-5)East Coast areaToksan Airfield - Headquarters, 2nd Air Combat Command. Air Wing (2 ACC) (MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)Sondok Airfield - Air Transport Wing (Y-5/An-2/Li-2)Kowon - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Z-5/Mi-4/Mi-8/Mi-17)Pakhon - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Z-5/Mi-4/Mi-8/Mi-17/Mi-2)Wonsan Airport - Air WingKang Da Ri Airfield - Underground runway near Wonsan, under construction; Google Earth Imagery is available.[12]Tongchŏn Airfield(MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)Inhung - Helipads (Mi-8/Ka-27 (possibly Ka-28/Ka-29/Ka-32)) (39°31′55″N 127°22′29″E)Hamhŭng Airfield(MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)Far Northeast areaSamjiyon Airfield - Training WingHyesan Airfield - Training WingHwangsuwon-ni Airfield - 72nd Air Wing (MiG-21bis)Kilchu Highway Airfield - Training WingOrang Airfield - Headquarters, 8th Air Division. Training Wing (8 AD) (MiG-15UTI/J-2/MiG-15).Changjin-up Airfield-(MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)(H-5)Sungam Airfield - Air Transport Wing (Y-5/An-2)Riwon north Airfield - (MiG-15UTI/J-2/MiG-15)Aircraft[edit]Current inventory[edit]A North Korean Shenyang J-6A North Korean MiG-29S, 2003A former Indonesian Lim-5 on display in the United States in North Korean markingsAircraftOriginTypeVariantIn serviceNotesCombat AircraftMiG-29Russiamultirole35[13]MiG-21Soviet Unionfighter26[13]MiG-23Soviet Unionfighter-bomber56[13]Sukhoi Su-7Soviet Unionfighter-bomber18[13]Sukhoi Su-25Russiaattack34[13]Ilyushin Il-28Soviet Unionmedium bomberH-580[13]Chinese-built variant designated the H-5Shenyang F-5People's Republic of Chinafighter106[13]derivative of the MiG-17Shenyang J-6People's Republic of ChinafighterF-697[13]license built MiG-19Chengdu J-7People's Republic of ChinafighterF-7120[13]license built MiG-21TransportAntonov An-24Ukraineheavy transport1[13]HelicoptersMD 500United Stateslight utility84[13]aircraft were illegally obtained by circumventing U.S. export controls[14]PZL Mi-2Polandutility46[13]Mil Mi-8Soviet Unionutility40[13]Mil Mi-14Soviet UnionASW /SAR8[13]Mil Mi-24Russiaattack20[13]Mil Mi-26Russiatransport4[13]Trainer AircraftShenyang F-5People's Republic of Chinajet trainerFT-5135[13]Shenyang FT-2People's Republic of Chinajet trainer30[13]Chinese production of the MiG-15UTIAircraft subtypes and capabilities[edit]Fighters[edit]MiG-17F/F-5: The MiG-17, and Shenyang F-5 are subsonic jet fighters. North Korea operates the basic variant, armed with 1 x 37 mm cannon and 2 x 23 mm cannons, with a total round supply of 200 rounds. There is no provision for AA missiles, although the fighter could be modified to carry two AA-2 Atoll missiles. It is outdated because of its low maximum speed and may lack radar and any sort of modern avionics. Due to lack of modern avionics, it is defenseless in Beyond-Visual-Range combat. At least some have been modified into ground attack aircraft through the addition of two fuselage pylons. Though its close range maneuverability makes it a powerful ground attack and dogfighter.F-6B/MiG-19: The Shenyang F-6B is a Chinese clear-weather, day fighter version of the Soviet MiG-19. It has a supersonic capability, and is armed with two AA-2 Atoll missiles as well as three 30 mm automatic cannons. Along with the F-5 and the MiG-21 it is equipped with a radar, which has very limited range and capabilities. Having a short range, small payload and outdated avionics, the aircraft is largely obsolete, as its tiny missile load and poor avionics do not measure up to those of American or South Korean aircraft. Due to lack of modern avionics, it is defenseless in Beyond-Visual-Range combat. At least some have been modified into ground attack aircraft through the addition of four fuselage pylons.MiG-21: North Korea operates a large number of MiG-21 PFMs, which are the country's most numerous fighter. The MiG-21PFM is one of the later versions of the original MiG-21, with many improvements over earlier models. It includes systems such as a radar warning receiver and IFF, which are necessary to wage a modern air war; other more modern components are lacking on this fighter, though. The PFM is armed with a GSh-23 cannon with 200 rounds, two AA-2 Atoll missiles, and has a provision for a Kh-66 missile. At least 200 MiG-21s, including 30 built in China, are generally accepted as having been delivered to the KPAF.[citation needed] By 1966-67, 80 MiG-21F-13 were delivered, with the first 14 arriving in or before 1963. 65 MiG-21PFM were delivered 1968-1971 and 24 more in 1974. In May 1968, the United States estimated that a minimum of 400 fighter jets existed in the North Korean Air Force.[15]According to the US DIA, by 1977 there were a total of 120 MiG-21s in DPRK, but by 1983 this number had dropped to 50; 150 MiG-21PFM and MiG-21MF were reportedly delivered in 1985. According to one estimate,[citation needed] 150 MiG-21s are in service. 50 MiG-21 trainers of different variants were delivered, of which 30 are believed to be in service. In 1999, 38 MiG-21bis izdeliye 75A were delivered from Kazakhstan.[16] As of 2007, units known to be operating MiG-21s are:[17]One squadron of 46th Air Regiment at WonsanThree squadrons of 56th Air Regiment at Toksan, flying J-7B, MiG-21PFM and MiG-21bis, but it is not known if the types are mixed or not.One squadron of 60th Air Regiment at Pukch'angThree squadrons of 86th Air Regiment at Koksan flying MiG-21PF and MiG-21UThree squadrons of an unidentified Air Regiment at Hwangju flying MiG-21PF and MiG-21UAn unidentified reconnaissance/electronic warfare regiment.F-7B: The Chengdu F-7B is an improved Chinese-made copy of the Soviet MiG-21, armed with PL-7 AA missiles.MiG-23ML: The MiG-23ML is a third-generation fighter with many improvements over previous models. It has a look-down capability and effective longer-range radars, as well as other more modern avionics. The ML is very maneuverable, has a large payload and with proper maintenance and good pilot quality can be on par with some newer fighter aircraft.MiG-29B/UB: The MiG-29 is the KPAF's most modern fighter, possessing all types of modern avionics and weaponry. North Korea operates approximately 30 MiG-29B/UB's, which are in flying condition and are used mostly for the defence of Pyongyang's airspace. No other MiG-29 variants are confirmed to be flown, owned or purchased by the KPAF. However photographs obtained by a US RC-135 aircraft intercepted by MiG-29's in 2003 suggests that the KPAF may operate some MiG-29C's[18]Bombers[edit]Ilyushin Il-28: Having been developed in the late 1940s, the Il-28 (and the Chinese copy, the Harbin H-5) represents an old generation of bomber aircraft. North Korea originally received 24 Ilyushin Il-28 Beagles in 1960, and after that deliveries of the Chinese H-5 copy continued. The H-5 is a simple, robust, jet-engined bomber, capable of carrying up to 3,000 kilograms (6,600 lb) of bombs, including conventional, biological, chemical or nuclear. Its range is about 2,400 kilometres (1,500 mi), capable of hitting targets in most of Japanand all of South Korea. The bomber is supplied with a special aiming radar for the bombardier for precise targeting during poor visibility. Despite these advantages, it has a few grave drawbacks - a low maximum speed of 900 kilometres per hour (560 mph) and a fairly low ceiling of about 13,000 metres (43,000 ft), which renders the aircraft very vulnerable even to older types of SAMs and jet fighters. Despite this, it provides North Korea with a medium-range weapons platform. As of 2006, North Korea had 82 Il-28/H-5 of various types based at Changjin and Uiju.[19]Ground attack aircraft[edit]Su-7BMK: One of the first mass-produced Cold War-era Soviet ground attack aircraft, the Su-7BMK is a swept-wing aircraft for bombing missions and with a limited fighter capability. It is easy to maintain, but requires very long airfields due to its wing configuration. The Su-7 is generally obsolete. It can carry up to 2,000 kg of armament and is armed with 2x 30 mm cannons.A/Q-5II: A ground attack fighter designed by China and based on the MiG-19, the A-5 has been in service since the 1970s. Like most of North Korea's aircraft, it is obsolete compared to most modern aircraft, lacking modern avionics and weaponry.Su-25K: The Su-25K is the North's most modern strike/CAS aircraft.Attack helicopters[edit]MD 500D: The MD Helicopters MD 500D is a civilian helicopter which North Korea imported in 1985 by circumventing United States export controls. Ironically, the airframe of the 500D was manufactured in South Korea, was assembled in the United States, and was purchased through a German export firm. The 500D has no attack capabilities, but it can be easily modified to assume the role of a gunship. Of the 87 500Ds North Korea imported, at least 60 are said to be modified in this manner. Although a modified 500D would be effective in the anti-personnel role, it only has a marginal chance of deterring lightly armored vehicles, so it is likely that the 500D would be used in a defensive role or employ guerrilla tactics. With a range of 605 km, the 500D should be capable of scouting much of the Korean Peninsula. However, as the civilian version lacks a radar, its role as an observation helicopter would be limited. The ROKA operates a military variant of the 500D known as the 500MD, which could lead to deceptive operations by the North Koreans if their 500Ds were painted with ROKA livery and infiltrated South Korea. Although there are slight differences between the airframes of the 500D and the 500MD, it would be difficult to differentiate between them if a soldier is unfamiliar with the differences or if the helicopter were flying at high speeds. However, this problem could be resolved if an IFF system is implemented, thereby further limiting the 500D's role as an observation helicopter.Mi-2: Light transport and light combat helicopter. The Mi-2 Hoplite can be armed with PK Kenny Photography and 57 mm rocket pods and was able to provide close air support. 140 in service with the Korean People's Air Force and 7,200 of these aircraft were produced. This aircraft worked well as a transport and light utility helicopter with the ability to hold up to 8 fully armed men and a pilot. But the Mi-2 was not much more than that because its light armor made it vulnerable to small arms fire.Mi-14: Derived from the flexible Mi-8 Hip design, the Mi-14 Haze is a naval development of the Mi-8, capable of ASW, mine sweeping and SAR roles. It is unclear what the KPAF's ASW arsenal consists of, but it is unlikely that their inventory contains equipment that are feasible in anti-submarine roles by modern standards. It is much more likely that the Mi-14 will be used in the SAR role, as it is unclear which variant of the Mi-14 the KPAF possesses.Mi-24: Also a development from the Mi-8 design, the Mi-24 Hind is a very feasible gunship with troop-transport capability. Although it is unknown which variant of the Mi-24 the KPAF possesses, it is likely to be the Mi-24D Hind-D variant, the most common type of Mi-24 in service around the world. It can be internally equipped with a 12.7 mm Gatling gun, a door mounted machine gun, and has a payload capacity of 1500 kg that can consist of anti-tank missiles, gunpods, rocket launchers, bombs and IR guided AAMs. While the KPAF's anti-tank arsenal is unknown, they are likely to have at least a limited inventory to fit the Mi-24 as a capable attack helicopter. The Mi-24 also has a passenger compartment capable of accommodating up to 8 passengers, with armoured plates protecting this section. The flight performance of the Mi-24 is far from agile, and its mobility would further diminish when carrying the extra passengers. The Mi-24 has a range of 450 km, making it a capable attack helicopter that can cover much of the South Korean peninsula even with a feasible combat load. The Hind would be an excellent complement to the Su-25 Frogfoot ground attack aircraft, along with escort fighters. Because it is capable of transporting troops into the front lines, the Mi-24 Hind may also rescue injured soldiers to transport them for treatment. The Mi-24 is also capable of carrying R-60 "Aphid" IR guided AAMs for self-defense. Despite its age, the Mi-24 is still very much capable as a gunship and an anti-armour helicopter.Special Forces[edit]An-2: The Antonov An-2 is propeller driven cargo and utility aircraft, the world's largest biplane. Although primarily used in the civilian role as an agricultural and firefighting aircraft in other countries, the An-2 is capable of transporting up to 14 passengers in its rear compartment. The North Korean Special Forces possesses around 300 of these aircraft, and due to its 845 km range, it may be used by the KPAF to deploy special forces agents well behind the South Korean front lines. Because the An-2 is almost silent and can operate at very low speeds, the An-2 may also be used as a light bomber in addition to its ability to paratroop special forces agents. Since the An-2 is a STOL aircraft that requires minimal runway space, the airfields for the An-2 are less vulnerable compared to others and may be placed discreetly along North Korea.Unmanned Aerial Vehicles[edit]North Korea is believed to operate some 300 reconnaissance drones and 10 attack UAVs.Banghyeon: Banghyeon drones are remodeled Chinese D-4 UAVs with a fuselage measuring 3.6 m (12 ft) long, with a 4.8 m (16 ft) wingspan, and a top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph).[20]Vega Shmel (Bumblebee): 10 Shmel-1 UAVs were bought from Russia in the 1990s. They have a range of 60 km (37 mi), a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph), and are capable of carrying bombs.[20]Sky-09: The Sky-09 is a Chinese commercial UAV acquired by North Korea and modified with a different paint scheme, a muffler to make it quieter, and different cameras. It weighs 12 kg (26 lb), has a delta wing configuration with a wingspan of 1.92 m (6.3 ft), and has a payload of 3 kg (6.6 lb). It is launched using a catapult, can operate in a robotic mode to fly over pre-programmed GPS coordinates to take photos, and lands using a parachute. Endurance is 90 minutes and top speed is 90 km/h (56 mph). When controlled, the Sky-09 can operate 40 km (25 mi) from its controller, but can travel 60 km (37 mi) in robotic mode.[21]MQM-107 Streaker: North Korea reportedly acquired MQM-107 Streaker target-towing drones from a middle-eastern country, probably Syria, to develop unmanned attack aircraft based on the Streakers technology. According to Fox News, the South Korean "Yonhap" News Agency reported that "Its North Korea's powerful military placed explosives on the drones in a number of tests, but was yet to master the technology." [22]The DoD's annual report to congress about North Korea's military capabilities states that North Korean press reported that the UAV was capable of carrying out precision strikes by ramming a target.[23]There are three other smaller UAVs that have been identified, Panghyon (1 and 2), Tupolev Tu-143 and Turumi[24]Armament[edit]The KPAAF use the R-23 missile similar to this oneNameOriginTypeNotesAir-to-air missileAA-10Russiaair-to-air missile60 medium range missiles[25]AA-11Russiaair-to-air missileAA-8Soviet Unionair-to-air missile190 missiles[25]AA-2Soviet Unionair-to-air missile1050 missiles[25]AA-7Soviet Unionair-to-air missile250 missiles[25]AA-5Soviet Unionair-to-air missileAA-6Soviet Unionair-to-air missileAA-3Soviet Unionair-to-air missiledAA-4Soviet Unionair-to-air missileAir-to-surface missileKN-09North Koreaair-to-surface missileKh-35URS Russiaair-to-surface missileKh-28URSair-to-surface missileKh-29URSair-to-surface missileKh-23URSair-to-surface missileAT6/AS8URSair-to-surface missileKh-25URSair-to-surface missileAir Defense[edit]North Korea has deployed a wide range of SAM and AAA systems ranging from the oldest Soviet designs to highly mobile and modern examples. Most SAM systems are of Soviet design lineage with some locally produced designs, while AA artillery is from both Soviet and local suppliers. MANPADS are used extensively, with over 15,000 units fielded according to a 1995 Pentagon report on the country. North Korea has one of the most extensive integrated air defence systems (IADS) in the world, with many of its radars and launchers positioned on fortified elevating platforms, its aircraft positioned in hardened bunkers and even two underground airbases, and some level of coverage for every town.[26]The addition of the KN-06 SAM, which was flight-tested in the spring of 2011, and a local model of the Pechora 2 (Upgraded SA-3), unveiled at a 2012 military parade have notably expanded the systems capabilities. According IHS Jane's Defence Weekly currently has on 2014 two different more updated system: the KN-06/Ponghae-5 was probably related to the Chinese HQ-16A system, while the Ponghae-6 could be related with the HQ-9 or the Russian S-300.[27]Equipment[edit]NameOriginTypeQuantityNotesSAMKN-06North KoreaLR-SAMS-200Soviet UnionSAM system75 missiles[25]BukRussiaMR SAM[28]KubSoviet UnionMR SAMS-125 Neva/PechoraRussiaSAM system300 missiles[25]S-75 DvinaSoviet UnionSAM system1950 missiles[25]S-25 BerkutSoviet UnionSAM systemSA-7RussiaMANPADS4000 units[25]SA-16 9K310 Igla-1RussiaSAM systemProduced locallyAir Defence ArtilleryZSU-57-2Soviet Unionself-propelled250[25]tracked self-propelled anti-aircraft systemZSU-23-4Soviet Unionself-propelled248[25]tracked self-propelled anti-aircraft systemRadarsSAIRAN KashefIranearly warning radarCapabilities[edit]The KPAF operates a wide range of fighter and attack aircraft. North Korea is one of the few nations still operating the obsolete MiG-17and MiG-19 fighters, yet it operates more modern and fairly capable MiG-23 and MiG-29 fighters. The KPAF's most numerous fighter is the MiG-21, which is somewhat obsolete but still a worthy foe in air-to-air combat, if maintained properly and crewed by experienced pilots. An assessment by US analysts GlobalSecurity.org - Reliable Security Information reported that the air force "has a marginal capability for defending North Korean airspace and a limited ability to conduct air operations against South Korea."[29]Yet, North Korea operates a wide variety of air defence equipment, from short-range MANPADS and ZPU-4 machine guns, to long-range SA-5 Gammon SAM systems and large-calibre AA artillery guns. DPRK has one of the densest air defence networks in the world. Ilyushin Il-28 Beagle bombers provide a medium-range attack platform, despite being generally obsolete. A large part of the ground attack aircraft are kept in heavily fortified hangars, some of which are capable of withstanding a nearby nuclear blast. Stealth capacity is known in the KPAF through researching in radar-absorbing paint and inventory deception.[30]Korean People's Army Air ForceFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia(Redirected from Korean People's Air Force)Korean People's Army Air Force 조선인민군 공군KPAAF roundelFounded20 August 1947CountryNorth KoreaSize110,000 personnel 940 aircraft[1]Part ofKorean People's ArmyGarrison/HQPyongyangAnniversaries20 AugustEngagementsKorean War Vietnam War[2]CommandersCommander-in-chiefGeneral Ri Pyong-cholNotable commandersVMAR Cho Myong-rok Col. Gen. Oh Gum-cholInsigniaEnsignAircraft flownAttackSu-7, Q-5, Su-25BomberIl-28FighterF-7B, F-5, F-6, MiG-21,MiG-23, MiG-29HelicopterMil Mi-8, MD 500TrainerL-39, Shenyang FT-2TransportIL-76, An-24, An-2The Korean People's Army Air Force (Chosŏn'gŭl: 조선인민군 공군; Hanja: 朝鮮人民軍 空軍) is the appellation of the unified aviation forces of North Korea. The KPAF is the 2nd largest branch of the Korean People's Army comprising an estimated 110,000 members.[3]It possesses 940 aircraft of different types; mostly of Soviet and Chinese origin. Its primary task is to defend North Korean airspace.[4]When the People's Army was forged with Soviet assistance, the aviation unit became its air force branch on August 20, 1947. North Korea has celebrated August 20 as Air Force Foundation Day ever since.Contents[hide]1History2Organization2.1Operational doctrine3Personnel3.1Annual flying hours4Structure4.1Air bases5Aircraft5.1Current inventory6Aircraft subtypes and capabilities6.1Fighters6.2Bombers6.3Ground attack aircraft6.4Attack helicopters6.5Special Forces6.6Unmanned Aerial Vehicles6.7Armament7Air Defense7.1Equipment8Capabilities9Ranks and uniforms9.1Ranks9.1.1Enlisted9.1.2Officers9.1.3Marshals9.2Uniforms10Defections11See also12References13External linksHistory[edit]Kim Il-sung set up the Aviation Association branches in Pyongyang, Sinuiju, Chongjin and other parts of the country in 1945. In December 1945 he merged them into the Aviation Association of Korea. The air force became a separate service in 1948. The KPAF incorporates much of the original Soviet air tactics, as well as North Korean experience from the UN bombings during the Korean War.The KPAF has on occasion deployed abroad to assist fellow socialist states, with a North Korean flight of MiG-21s deploying to Bir Arida to help defend southern Egypt during the Yom Kippur War.[5]In 1990-91, North Korea activated four forward air bases near the DMZ.Organization[edit]Operational doctrine[edit]North Korean Ilyushin Il-10at Kimpo International Airport,South Korea, on 21 September 1950.Given North Korea's experience with heavy U.S. bombardments in the Korean War, its aim has been mainly to defend North Korean airspace. The heavy reliance on fighter aircraft, Surface-to-air missile andAnti-aircraft warfare reflects this. However, since nearly all of North Korea's aircraft inventory consists of aging and obsolete Soviet and Chinese aircraft, the primary goal of the air force may have changed in the last years to providing ground support for the land forces and threatening South Korean population centers and military targets with a massive air attack.In this way, North Korea could try to maintain military parity with South Korea by using its air force as a deterrent, much like its ballistic missiles, instead of trying to maintain a technological parity in aircraft types for individual air-to-air roles. This seems to be confirmed by the recent redeployment of 120 mostly obsolete fighters, bombers and transport aircraft closer to the demilitarized zone, even though 440 modern aircraft are also based near the DMZ. Keeping in mind the production, storage and use of a vast chemical, biological and possibly nuclear weapons inventory by North Korea, this change in doctrine is even more significant.Personnel[edit]From 1978 to 1995 General Jo Myong-rok was the commander of the air force. In October 1995 he was promoted to vice-marshal and appointed Chief of the KPA General Political Bureau and a member of the Korean Workers' Party Central Military Committee. His place as commander of the Air Force was taken by Colonel General Oh Gum-chol.Annual flying hours[edit]The number of annual flying hours (AFH) per pilot is, like almost every other aspect of the KPAF, very hard to estimate. Most sources on the subject abstain from giving hard numbers, but all of them estimate the average annual flying hours per pilot as being 'low' to 'very low'. The number of annual flying hours is of course very important in estimating the individual skill and experience of the pilots of an air force: more annual flying hours suggests better trained pilots. Most estimates present a rather grim picture: AFH per pilot for the KPAF are said to be only 15 or 25[6]hours per pilot each year - comparable to the flying hours of air forces in ex-Soviet countries in the early 1990s. In comparison, most NATO fighter pilots fly at least 150 hours a year. Ground training, both in classrooms, on instructional airframes or in a flight simulator can only substitute for 'the real thing' to a certain degree, and the low number of modern jet trainers in the KPAF arsenal points to a very modest amount of flying time for the formation of new pilots.There are a number of possible explanations for the low AFH: concern over the aging of equipment, scarcity of spare parts - especially for the older aircraft - difficulties with worn airframes, fear of defection and the scarcity of fuel are all contributing factors. It is very likely however that some 'elite' pilots and regiments receive considerably more flying hours. Especially those equipped with modern aircraft and tasked with homeland defence - like the 57th regiment flying MiG-29s and the 60th regiment flying MiG-23s - are receiving multiple times the average AFH per pilot; however, aging equipment, the scarcity of fuel and the general economic crisis in the DPRK will affect these regiments as well, and keep their AFH low compared to NATO AFH.AFP reported on January 23, 2012 that the KPAF had conducted more flight training than average in 2011.The Chosun Ilbo reported on March 29, 2012 that the KPAF had dramatically increased the number of flights to 650 per day.[7]Structure[edit]Following is a list of bases where North Korean Army Air Force aircraft are permanently based.[8][9]Air bases[edit]Northwestern areaUiju Airfield (40°08′59″N 124°29′53″E)24th Air Wing (Transport) - operating transport aircraft, Il-28 or Harbin B-5s and disassembled MiG-21sPanghyon South Highway StripAir Wing- operating MiG-17F/J-5, F-5/FT-5Taechon Airfield5th Air Transport WingKaech'on Airfield - Headquarters, 1st Air Combat Command. 35th Air Fighter Wing (MiG-19/J-6). Fighter base with 2500 m runway.Pukch'ang Airport - 60th Air Fighter Wing (1 ACC) (MiG-23ML/MiG-23UB/MiG-15UTI); Air Transport Wing (5 TD) (H500D/H500E/500D). This base was where most new Soviet fighter aircraft were delivered during the 1960s.[10]Samjangkol - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Mi-2)Sunchon Airport - 55th Air Fighter Wing (1 ACC) (Su-25K/Su-25UBK/Su-7BMK)(MiG-29/MiG-29UB)[11]Kanch'on - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Mi-4/Z-5/Mi-8/Mi-17/Mi-2)West Coast and Pyongyang area (Pyongyang is also the location of HQ, KPAAF)Onchon Airport - 57th Air Wing (1 ACC) (MiG-19/J-6/MiG-29/MiG-29UB)Hwangju Airfield - Headquarters, 3rd Air Combat Command. 56th Air Fighter Wing(3 ACC) (MiG-21U/MiG-21PF/J-7)Kwail Airport/Pungchon(38°25′31″N 125°01′07″E)Taetan Airfield - Air Fighter Wing (3 ACC) (Mi-2)Pyongyang Sunan International Airport - Special Service Air Transport Wing (KPAAF-CAAK) (Air Koryo) (Tu-134B/Tu-154B-2/Il-62M/Il-76MD/Il-18/An-24/An-148)Mirim Airfield - This airfield served as a light transport base and closed sometime in the 1990s, now used as a KPA training facility.DMZ areaChunghwa - Headquarters, Air Defense and Combat CommandKoksan Airport - 86th Air WingHyon-ni Airfield - Air Wing (F-5/FT-5)East Coast areaToksan Airfield - Headquarters, 2nd Air Combat Command. Air Wing (2 ACC) (MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)Sondok Airfield - Air Transport Wing (Y-5/An-2/Li-2)Kowon - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Z-5/Mi-4/Mi-8/Mi-17)Pakhon - Air Transport Wing (6 TD) (Z-5/Mi-4/Mi-8/Mi-17/Mi-2)Wonsan Airport - Air WingKang Da Ri Airfield - Underground runway near Wonsan, under construction; Google Earth Imagery is available.[12]Tongchŏn Airfield(MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)Inhung - Helipads (Mi-8/Ka-27 (possibly Ka-28/Ka-29/Ka-32)) (39°31′55″N 127°22′29″E)Hamhŭng Airfield(MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)Far Northeast areaSamjiyon Airfield - Training WingHyesan Airfield - Training WingHwangsuwon-ni Airfield - 72nd Air Wing (MiG-21bis)Kilchu Highway Airfield - Training WingOrang Airfield - Headquarters, 8th Air Division. Training Wing (8 AD) (MiG-15UTI/J-2/MiG-15).Changjin-up Airfield-(MiG-21PF/J-7/F-7)(H-5)Sungam Airfield - Air Transport Wing (Y-5/An-2)Riwon north Airfield - (MiG-15UTI/J-2/MiG-15)Aircraft[edit]Current inventory[edit]A North Korean Shenyang J-6A North Korean MiG-29S, 2003A former Indonesian Lim-5 on display in the United States in North Korean markingsAircraftOriginTypeVariantIn serviceNotesCombat AircraftMiG-29Russiamultirole35[13]MiG-21Soviet Unionfighter26[13]MiG-23Soviet Unionfighter-bomber56[13]Sukhoi Su-7Soviet Unionfighter-bomber18[13]Sukhoi Su-25Russiaattack34[13]Ilyushin Il-28Soviet Unionmedium bomberH-580[13]Chinese-built variant designated the H-5Shenyang F-5People's Republic of Chinafighter106[13]derivative of the MiG-17Shenyang J-6People's Republic of ChinafighterF-697[13]license built MiG-19Chengdu J-7People's Republic of ChinafighterF-7120[13]license built MiG-21TransportAntonov An-24Ukraineheavy transport1[13]HelicoptersMD 500United Stateslight utility84[13]aircraft were illegally obtained by circumventing U.S. export controls[14]PZL Mi-2Polandutility46[13]Mil Mi-8Soviet Unionutility40[13]Mil Mi-14Soviet UnionASW /SAR8[13]Mil Mi-24Russiaattack20[13]Mil Mi-26Russiatransport4[13]Trainer AircraftShenyang F-5People's Republic of Chinajet trainerFT-5135[13]Shenyang FT-2People's Republic of Chinajet trainer30[13]Chinese production of the MiG-15UTIAircraft subtypes and capabilities[edit]Fighters[edit]MiG-17F/F-5: The MiG-17, and Shenyang F-5 are subsonic jet fighters. North Korea operates the basic variant, armed with 1 x 37 mm cannon and 2 x 23 mm cannons, with a total round supply of 200 rounds. There is no provision for AA missiles, although the fighter could be modified to carry two AA-2 Atoll missiles. It is outdated because of its low maximum speed and may lack radar and any sort of modern avionics. Due to lack of modern avionics, it is defenseless in Beyond-Visual-Range combat. At least some have been modified into ground attack aircraft through the addition of two fuselage pylons. Though its close range maneuverability makes it a powerful ground attack and dogfighter.F-6B/MiG-19: The Shenyang F-6B is a Chinese clear-weather, day fighter version of the Soviet MiG-19. It has a supersonic capability, and is armed with two AA-2 Atoll missiles as well as three 30 mm automatic cannons. Along with the F-5 and the MiG-21 it is equipped with a radar, which has very limited range and capabilities. Having a short range, small payload and outdated avionics, the aircraft is largely obsolete, as its tiny missile load and poor avionics do not measure up to those of American or South Korean aircraft. Due to lack of modern avionics, it is defenseless in Beyond-Visual-Range combat. At least some have been modified into ground attack aircraft through the addition of four fuselage pylons.MiG-21: North Korea operates a large number of MiG-21PFMs, which are the country's most numerous fighter. The MiG-21PFM is one of the later versions of the original MiG-21, with many improvements over earlier models. It includes systems such as a radar warning receiver and IFF, which are necessary to wage a modern air war; other more modern components are lacking on this fighter, though. The PFM is armed with a GSh-23 cannon with 200 rounds, two AA-2 Atoll missiles, and has a provision for a Kh-66 missile. At least 200 MiG-21s, including 30 built in China, are generally accepted as having been delivered to the KPAF.[citation needed] By 1966-67, 80 MiG-21F-13 were delivered, with the first 14 arriving in or before 1963. 65 MiG-21PFM were delivered 1968-1971 and 24 more in 1974. In May 1968, the United States estimated that a minimum of 400 fighter jets existed in the North Korean Air Force.[15]According to the US DIA, by 1977 there were a total of 120 MiG-21s in DPRK, but by 1983 this number had dropped to 50; 150 MiG-21PFM and MiG-21MF were reportedly delivered in 1985. According to one estimate,[citation needed] 150 MiG-21s are in service. 50 MiG-21 trainers of different variants were delivered, of which 30 are believed to be in service. In 1999, 38 MiG-21bis izdeliye 75A were delivered from Kazakhstan.[16] As of 2007, units known to be operating MiG-21s are:[17]One squadron of 46th Air Regiment at WonsanThree squadrons of 56th Air Regiment at Toksan, flying J-7B, MiG-21PFM and MiG-21bis, but it is not known if the types are mixed or not.One squadron of 60th Air Regiment at Pukch'angThree squadrons of 86th Air Regiment at Koksan flying MiG-21PF and MiG-21UThree squadrons of an unidentified Air Regiment at Hwangju flying MiG-21PF and MiG-21UAn unidentified reconnaissance/electronic warfare regiment.F-7B: The Chengdu F-7B is an improved Chinese-made copy of the Soviet MiG-21, armed with PL-7 AA missiles.MiG-23ML: The MiG-23ML is a third-generation fighter with many improvements over previous models. It has a look-down capability and effective longer-range radars, as well as other more modern avionics. The ML is very maneuverable, has a large payload and with proper maintenance and good pilot quality can be on par with some newer fighter aircraft.MiG-29B/UB: The MiG-29 is the KPAF's most modern fighter, possessing all types of modern avionics and weaponry. North Korea operates approximately 30 MiG-29B/UB's, which are in flying condition and are used mostly for the defence of Pyongyang's airspace. No other MiG-29 variants are confirmed to be flown, owned or purchased by the KPAF. However photographs obtained by a US RC-135 aircraft intercepted by MiG-29's in 2003 suggests that the KPAF may operate some MiG-29C's[18]Bombers[edit]Ilyushin Il-28: Having been developed in the late 1940s, the Il-28 (and the Chinese copy, the Harbin H-5) represents an old generation of bomber aircraft. North Korea originally received 24 Ilyushin Il-28 Beagles in 1960, and after that deliveries of the Chinese H-5 copy continued. The H-5 is a simple, robust, jet-engined bomber, capable of carrying up to 3,000 kilograms (6,600 lb) of bombs, including conventional, biological, chemical or nuclear. Its range is about 2,400 kilometres (1,500 mi), capable of hitting targets in most of Japanand all of South Korea. The bomber is supplied with a special aiming radar for the bombardier for precise targeting during poor visibility. Despite these advantages, it has a few grave drawbacks - a low maximum speed of 900 kilometres per hour (560 mph) and a fairly low ceiling of about 13,000 metres (43,000 ft), which renders the aircraft very vulnerable even to older types of SAMs and jet fighters. Despite this, it provides North Korea with a medium-range weapons platform. As of 2006, North Korea had 82 Il-28/H-5 of various types based at Changjin and Uiju.[19]Ground attack aircraft[edit]Su-7BMK: One of the first mass-produced Cold War-era Soviet ground attack aircraft, the Su-7BMK is a swept-wing aircraft for bombing missions and with a limited fighter capability. It is easy to maintain, but requires very long airfields due to its wing configuration. The Su-7 is generally obsolete. It can carry up to 2,000 kg of armament and is armed with 2x 30 mm cannons.A/Q-5II: A ground attack fighter designed by China and based on the MiG-19, the A-5 has been in service since the 1970s. Like most of North Korea's aircraft, it is obsolete compared to most modern aircraft, lacking modern avionics and weaponry.Su-25K: The Su-25K is the North's most modern strike/CAS aircraft.Attack helicopters[edit]MD 500D: The MD Helicopters MD 500D is a civilian helicopter which North Korea imported in 1985 by circumventing United States export controls. Ironically, the airframe of the 500D was manufactured in South Korea, was assembled in the United States, and was purchased through a German export firm. The 500D has no attack capabilities, but it can be easily modified to assume the role of a gunship. Of the 87 500Ds North Korea imported, at least 60 are said to be modified in this manner. Although a modified 500D would be effective in the anti-personnel role, it only has a marginal chance of deterring lightly armored vehicles, so it is likely that the 500D would be used in a defensive role or employ guerrilla tactics. With a range of 605 km, the 500D should be capable of scouting much of the Korean Peninsula. However, as the civilian version lacks a radar, its role as an observation helicopter would be limited. The ROKA operates a military variant of the 500D known as the 500MD, which could lead to deceptive operations by the North Koreans if their 500Ds were painted with ROKA livery and infiltrated South Korea. Although there are slight differences between the airframes of the 500D and the 500MD, it would be difficult to differentiate between them if a soldier is unfamiliar with the differences or if the helicopter were flying at high speeds. However, this problem could be resolved if an IFF system is implemented, thereby further limiting the 500D's role as an observation helicopter.Mi-2: Light transport and light combat helicopter. The Mi-2 Hoplite can be armed with PK Kenny Photography and 57 mm rocket pods and was able to provide close air support. 140 in service with the Korean People's Air Force and 7,200 of these aircraft were produced. This aircraft worked well as a transport and light utility helicopter with the ability to hold up to 8 fully armed men and a pilot. But the Mi-2 was not much more than that because its light armor made it vulnerable to small arms fire.Mi-14: Derived from the flexible Mi-8 Hip design, the Mi-14 Haze is a naval development of the Mi-8, capable of ASW, mine sweeping and SAR roles. It is unclear what the KPAF's ASW arsenal consists of, but it is unlikely that their inventory contains equipment that are feasible in anti-submarine roles by modern standards. It is much more likely that the Mi-14 will be used in the SAR role, as it is unclear which variant of the Mi-14 the KPAF possesses.Mi-24: Also a development from the Mi-8 design, the Mi-24 Hind is a very feasible gunship with troop-transport capability. Although it is unknown which variant of the Mi-24 the KPAF possesses, it is likely to be the Mi-24D Hind-D variant, the most common type of Mi-24 in service around the world. It can be internally equipped with a 12.7 mm Gatling gun, a door mounted machine gun, and has a payload capacity of 1500 kg that can consist of anti-tank missiles, gunpods, rocket launchers, bombs and IR guided AAMs. While the KPAF's anti-tank arsenal is unknown, they are likely to have at least a limited inventory to fit the Mi-24 as a capable attack helicopter. The Mi-24 also has a passenger compartment capable of accommodating up to 8 passengers, with armoured plates protecting this section. The flight performance of the Mi-24 is far from agile, and its mobility would further diminish when carrying the extra passengers. The Mi-24 has a range of 450 km, making it a capable attack helicopter that can cover much of the South Korean peninsula even with a feasible combat load. The Hind would be an excellent complement to the Su-25 Frogfoot ground attack aircraft, along with escort fighters. Because it is capable of transporting troops into the front lines, the Mi-24 Hind may also rescue injured soldiers to transport them for treatment. The Mi-24 is also capable of carrying R-60 "Aphid" IR guided AAMs for self-defense. Despite its age, the Mi-24 is still very much capable as a gunship and an anti-armour helicopter.Special Forces[edit]An-2: The Antonov An-2 is propeller driven cargo and utility aircraft, the world's largest biplane. Although primarily used in the civilian role as an agricultural and firefighting aircraft in other countries, the An-2 is capable of transporting up to 14 passengers in its rear compartment. The North Korean Special Forces possesses around 300 of these aircraft, and due to its 845 km range, it may be used by the KPAF to deploy special forces agents well behind the South Korean front lines. Because the An-2 is almost silent and can operate at very low speeds, the An-2 may also be used as a light bomber in addition to its ability to paratroop special forces agents. Since the An-2 is a STOL aircraft that requires minimal runway space, the airfields for the An-2 are less vulnerable compared to others and may be placed discreetly along North Korea.Unmanned Aerial Vehicles[edit]North Korea is believed to operate some 300 reconnaissance drones and 10 attack UAVs.Banghyeon: Banghyeon drones are remodeled Chinese D-4 UAVs with a fuselage measuring 3.6 m (12 ft) long, with a 4.8 m (16 ft) wingspan, and a top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph).[20]Vega Shmel (Bumblebee): 10 Shmel-1 UAVs were bought from Russia in the 1990s. They have a range of 60 km (37 mi), a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph), and are capable of carrying bombs.[20]Sky-09: The Sky-09 is a Chinese commercial UAV acquired by North Korea and modified with a different paint scheme, a muffler to make it quieter, and different cameras. It weighs 12 kg (26 lb), has a delta wing configuration with a wingspan of 1.92 m (6.3 ft), and has a payload of 3 kg (6.6 lb). It is launched using a catapult, can operate in a robotic mode to fly over pre-programmed GPS coordinates to take photos, and lands using a parachute. Endurance is 90 minutes and top speed is 90 km/h (56 mph). When controlled, the Sky-09 can operate 40 km (25 mi) from its controller, but can travel 60 km (37 mi) in robotic mode.[21]MQM-107 Streaker: North Korea reportedly acquired MQM-107 Streaker target-towing drones from a middle-eastern country, probably Syria, to develop unmanned attack aircraft based on the Streakers technology. According to Fox News, the South Korean "Yonhap" News Agency reported that "Its North Korea's powerful military placed explosives on the drones in a number of tests, but was yet to master the technology." [22]The DoD's annual report to congress about North Korea's military capabilities states that North Korean press reported that the UAV was capable of carrying out precision strikes by ramming a target.[23]There are three other smaller UAVs that have been identified, Panghyon (1 and 2), Tupolev Tu-143 and Turumi[24]Armament[edit]The KPAAF use the R-23 missile similar to this oneNameOriginTypeNotesAir-to-air missileAA-10Russiaair-to-air missile60 medium range missiles[25]AA-11Russiaair-to-air missileAA-8Soviet Unionair-to-air missile190 missiles[25]AA-2Soviet Unionair-to-air missile1050 missiles[25]AA-7Soviet Unionair-to-air missile250 missiles[25]AA-5Soviet Unionair-to-air missileAA-6Soviet Unionair-to-air missileAA-3Soviet Unionair-to-air missiledAA-4Soviet Unionair-to-air missileAir-to-surface missileKN-09North Koreaair-to-surface missileKh-35URS Russiaair-to-surface missileKh-28URSair-to-surface missileKh-29URSair-to-surface missileKh-23URSair-to-surface missileAT6/AS8URSair-to-surface missileKh-25URSair-to-surface missileAir Defense[edit]North Korea has deployed a wide range of SAM and AAA systems ranging from the oldest Soviet designs to highly mobile and modern examples. Most SAM systems are of Soviet design lineage with some locally produced designs, while AA artillery is from both Soviet and local suppliers. MANPADS are used extensively, with over 15,000 units fielded according to a 1995 Pentagon report on the country. North Korea has one of the most extensive integrated air defence systems (IADS) in the world, with many of its radars and launchers positioned on fortified elevating platforms, its aircraft positioned in hardened bunkers and even two underground airbases, and some level of coverage for every town.[26]The addition of the KN-06 SAM, which was flight-tested in the spring of 2011, and a local model of the Pechora 2 (Upgraded SA-3), unveiled at a 2012 military parade have notably expanded the systems capabilities. According IHS Jane's Defence Weekly currently has on 2014 two different more updated system: the KN-06/Ponghae-5 was probably related to the Chinese HQ-16A system, while the Ponghae-6 could be related with the HQ-9 or the Russian S-300.[27]Equipment[edit]NameOriginTypeQuantityNotesSAMKN-06North KoreaLR-SAMS-200Soviet UnionSAM system75 missiles[25]BukRussiaMR SAM[28]KubSoviet UnionMR SAMS-125 Neva/PechoraRussiaSAM system300 missiles[25]S-75 DvinaSoviet UnionSAM system1950 missiles[25]S-25 BerkutSoviet UnionSAM systemSA-7RussiaMANPADS4000 units[25]SA-16 9K310 Igla-1RussiaSAM systemProduced locallyAir Defence ArtilleryZSU-57-2Soviet Unionself-propelled250[25]tracked self-propelled anti-aircraft systemZSU-23-4Soviet Unionself-propelled248[25]tracked self-propelled anti-aircraft systemRadarsSAIRAN KashefIranearly warning radarCapabilities[edit]The KPAF operates a wide range of fighter and attack aircraft. North Korea is one of the few nations still operating the obsolete MiG-17and MiG-19 fighters, yet it operates more modern and fairly capable MiG-23 and MiG-29 fighters. The KPAF's most numerous fighter is the MiG-21, which is somewhat obsolete but still a worthy foe in air-to-air combat, if maintained properly and crewed by experienced pilots. An assessment by US analysts GlobalSecurity.org - Reliable Security Information reported that the air force "has a marginal capability for defending North Korean airspace and a limited ability to conduct air operations against South Korea."[29]Yet, North Korea operates a wide variety of air defence equipment, from short-range MANPADS and ZPU-4 machine guns, to long-range SA-5 Gammon SAM systems and large-calibre AA artillery guns. DPRK has one of the densest air defence networks in the world. Ilyushin Il-28 Beagle bombers provide a medium-range attack platform, despite being generally obsolete. A large part of the ground attack aircraft are kept in heavily fortified hangars, some of which are capable of withstanding a nearby nuclear blast. Stealth capacity is known in the KPAF through researching in radar-absorbing paint and inventory deception.[30]