North Korean Air Force

North Korea's Air Force: A Relic of the Cold War

Aging Fleet and Limited Capabilities

The Korean People's Army Air Force (KPAAF) is the unified military aviation force of North Korea. It is the second largest branch of the Korean People's Army, with an estimated 110,000 members. However, the KPAAF relies primarily on aging aircraft from the Cold War era, lacking modern technology due to strict sanctions imposed on the country.

The fleet consists mainly of MiG-21s, which are notoriously outdated and susceptible to air defense systems. Recent attempts to acquire more advanced aircraft, such as the MiG-35, have been unsuccessful due to government halts and seizures.

Limited Operational Capacity

Despite its large size, the KPAAF has not acquired a new combat aircraft in over 30 years. Foreign sanctions and the slow decline of North Korea's economy have prevented the modernization of the air force.

The estimated size of the air force is over 110,000 personnel, with a notional inventory of more than 400 fighter aircraft, 80 light bombers, and 200 transport aircraft. However, the exact number of operational aircraft is unknown, with many believed to be in long-term storage or beyond repair.

Historic Engagements and Uncertain Future

During the Cold War, the KPAAF engaged in combat with US Naval and Air Force aircraft on several occasions. Despite the aging nature of its fleet, the KPAAF has surprisingly managed to maintain many obsolete aircraft types in service.

The future of the KPAAF remains uncertain. The country's continued isolation and lack of access to modern technology will likely hinder its ability to modernize its air force. The KPAAF may remain a relic of the Cold War, with its operational capacity and capabilities limited by the aging fleet.