North Korean Hwasong-11 missiles found to contain high levels of counterfeit parts

An analysis by Conflict Armament Research (CAR) has revealed that more than half of the electronic components in North Korean Hwasong-11 ballistic missiles used in the Ukraine conflict are counterfeit or suspected to be counterfeit.

After examining 81 traceable components recovered from missile debris in Ukraine, researchers found that 42 items—approximately 51.9%—were identified as fakes or suspected counterfeits. This rate of counterfeit components is significantly higher than those found in Iranian (16%) or Russian (20%) weaponry analyzed in the same study.

The investigation identified specific issues with Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFETs), which are critical for power management within missile subsystems. One instance involved transistors that mimicked genuine American-made products but featured different markings and lot codes that did not match the manufacturer's production records.

Researchers suggest that due to international sanctions, North Korea may be utilizing unverified supply chains or black markets to procure the technology and components necessary for weapon production. The use of counterfeit parts may lead to reduced reliability and performance in these missile systems.