Second Largest Branch Of The Kpa

The Korean People's Army Air Force: A Comprehensive Overview

Second-Largest Branch of the KPA

The Korean People's Army Air Force (KPAAF) is the unified military aviation branch of the Korean People's Army (KPA), responsible for North Korea's aerial defense and offensive operations. It is the second-largest branch of the KPA, comprising over 100,000 members.

Recent Deployments and Drills

In the first week of October 2022, the KPAAF deployed combat aircraft for air-to-surface firing drills near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea. This deployment demonstrated the KPAAF's readiness and ability to conduct precision strikes if necessary.

Aging Fleet but Capable Force

North Korea possesses a relatively large air force, with an estimated 1,000 combat aircraft. However, most of these aircraft are decades old, including Soviet- and Chinese-made MiG-21s, MiG-23s, and Su-25s. Despite the aging fleet, Pyongyang has been able to maintain a capable force through maintenance and modernization efforts.

Kim Jong-un's Focus

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has paid increasing attention to the KPAAF in recent years. He has overseen the modernization of the fleet and the development of new weapons systems. The KPAAF is expected to continue playing a vital role in North Korea's defense strategy and its asymmetrical warfare capabilities against South Korea and other potential adversaries.