Capabilities and role of the 600-mm multiple launch rocket system KN-25 (DPRK)
Tracked MLRS KN-25 on parade, 2021
A few years ago, the Korean People's Army (DPRK) for the first time openly showed a super-large caliber multiple launch rocket system, which has unique characteristics for its class. Subsequently, this product, which received the symbol KN-25 abroad, went into series in two modifications at once and entered the troops. Now the unusual MLRS occupies a special place in the weapons system of the missile forces and in the complex of means of deterring a potential enemy.
Extra large caliber
A promising MLRS of an unusual appearance was first shown in the summer of 2019. In official materials, it appeared under the names “600-mm super-large rocket launcher” and “rocket gun”. Abroad, he was assigned the conditional unofficial designation KN-25.
By the time of the official premiere, the KN-25 project had passed the stage of design and construction of experimental equipment. The first display of the finished product took place already at the test site as part of fire tests. In July-August 2019, the new MLRS conducted the first missile launches, and further events of this kind were repeatedly reported. As the tests continued, the energy performance of the missiles gradually increased until a level was reached that provided the design range.
Later they showed a new modification of the MLRS on a different chassis and with a reduced ammunition load. Both versions of the KN-25 were adopted by the KPA Missile Forces. Since 2019-20, they have been regularly shown at parades in Pyongyang. In addition, technology is constantly involved in army exercises, and the authorities publish spectacular shooting shots.
Tests of the first version of the MLRS, March 2020
Contrary to some foreign estimates, the DPRK has mastered the mass production of super-large "guns". So, on January 1, 2023, during the solemn ceremony, the army immediately received 30 combat vehicles. It is assumed that this batch of equipment will increase the total number of KN-25 products in the troops several times.
Special role
The extra-large caliber and high range characteristics directly speak of the special combat capabilities of the unusual MLRS. In the past, different assessments and forecasts have been made about the role of such equipment and its potential in the context of general strike capabilities. In recent months, official information on this matter has appeared.
So, in December 2022, a curious opinion about the potential of KN-25 was expressed by the Institute of Nuclear weapons DPRK. They believe that a salvo of four 600-mm rockets is capable of incapacitating an entire enemy airfield. The institute did not specify the combat equipment necessary for this, but it is clear that we are talking about special ammunition of one capacity or another.
In March, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited the Institute of Nuclear Weapons, where he was shown a number of modern and promising developments. Some of the exhibits and information stands were included in the corresponding open publications. In particular, the first open demonstration of the Hwasan-31 unified nuclear warhead aroused great interest abroad.
Missile launch from a wheeled combat vehicle, March 2020
According to the information provided, the Hwasan-31 product can be used with different delivery vehicles. As one of them, "600-mm super-large rocket launcher" is indicated. The diameter of the ammunition, according to various estimates, does not exceed 500 mm, and it fits in the body of the KN-25 missile with a margin.
Thus, the super-large-caliber MLRS is included in the system of nuclear and conventional deterrence of a potential adversary. Together with other types of weapons and equipment, incl. carrying Hwasan-31 products, it should pose a threat to important objects of unfriendly countries and warn them against aggressive actions. At the same time, the possibility of using the KN-25 at the operational-tactical level is not excluded.
Technical features
When developing the 600-mm “jet gun”, North Korean designers used an unusual combination of well-known and mastered ideas, which they supplemented with new solutions. As a result, a missile system was created that combines the characteristic qualities and capabilities of multiple launch rocket systems and operational-tactical class systems.
The KN-25 is available in two versions that differ in the base chassis and a number of other features. The first vehicle to be tested was a tracked chassis with high cross-country ability and carrying capacity, borrowed from one of the existing missile systems. On such a base, an elevating launcher with six tubular guides for missiles was placed.
600 mm rocket in flight
Later, a lightweight version of the combat vehicle was introduced. It was made on the basis of the North Korean version of the four-axle vehicle Tatra T813. Due to the smaller dimensions and carrying capacity, only four guides were installed on such a base.
Combat vehicles of both versions are equipped with unified fire controls. They contain communication devices, navigation, ballistic computers and equipment for programming missiles. The exact composition of control systems and their capabilities, for obvious reasons, were not disclosed.
MLRS KN-25 uses the original rocket. It is made in a cylindrical body with a diameter of 600 mm and a length of more than 8 m. The starting weight is approx. 3 tons. There are rudders on the ogive head fairing, folding stabilizers are placed in the tail. The latter are fixed on a movable ring rotating around the longitudinal axis of the rocket. Due to this, the necessary stabilization in flight is provided, but the rocket itself does not rotate, which simplifies the control and guidance processes.
The rocket is equipped with a solid propellant engine with a large mass charge. The start is carried out in a "hot" way with the release of reactive gases through the rear end of the guide tube. During the tests, the KN-25 rocket showed a flight range of up to 380 km and rose to a height of 95-97 km.
The missile is guided. On board are inertial and satellite navigation systems, as well as an autopilot that processes information from them and controls the operation of the rudders. Flight control is carried out using the rudders on the head fairing. The accuracy of the missile is unknown. Foreign sources estimate it at tens of meters, but the control principles used make it possible to obtain a CEP of no more than a few meters.
Kim Jong-un inspects the development of the Institute of Nuclear Weapons and other products. On the left - a 600-mm rocket for KN-25, on the right - warheads "Hwasan-31"
It is authentically known about the use of warheads of two types - heavy single-block high-explosive fragmentation and nuclear Hwasan-31. Such equipment allows solving all the main tasks and even participating in strategic deterrence.
Unique tool
Thus, the DPRK has developed and put into service a unique model of a multiple launch rocket system, which is noticeably different from all other products of this class. An original extra-large caliber missile with the appropriate performance characteristics and related equipment was developed.
Due to the specific technical appearance, the KN-25 product can be simultaneously considered as a MLRS and an OTRK, and it combines the best qualities of both classes of equipment, which provides new opportunities. Thus, in the multiple launch rocket system mode, the increased range and power of missiles are demonstrated, and as an OTRK, it becomes possible to attack the target / targets in one gulp. With all this, it is possible to select a warhead.
Officials and organizations in the DPRK call the "ultra-large rocket weapon" an important component of national defense. It can be used in the processes of strategic deterrence and directly in the course of hostilities. At the same time, high tactical and technical characteristics and the presence of various warheads provide the widest opportunities - and create a noticeable threat to Pyongyang's main opponents.
In general, the 600-mm MLRS is one of the most useful developments for the Korean National Army, and now its potential is being realized through mass production and deliveries to the troops. In addition, there are a number of other missile systems in service with certain features and advantages. Taken together, such means contribute to the containment of potential adversaries and thus help to maintain peace in the region.
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