KN-02

   The North Korean KN-02 short-range ballistic missile is a reverse-engineered and upgraded version of the Soviet Tochka (NATO Designation SS-21 Scarab-A), with a longer range. It was successfully test-fired in 2005. It is believed that quantity production of this missile commenced in 2006. It is speculated that at least 50 of these tactical missile systems are in service with the North Korean army. The KN-02 is broadly equivalent to improved Scarab-B missile.

   North Korea acquired the SS-21 technology from Syria in the mid-1990s. In 1996 Syria shipped these Soviet-built missiles to North Korea. These were later reverse-engineered and upgraded. The KN-02 represents a major enhancement of North Korean military technology. It has a significant advantage over the Scud-C, although it is shorter ranged.

   This missile can be used for precision strikes against important targets, such as airfields, command posts, bridges, storage facilities and troops concentrations.

   The baseline Soviet SS-21 Scarab-A is a single-stage solid-propellant missile. It has a maximum range of 70 km and a CEP of 160 m. It can carry conventional, chemical or nuclear warhead. North Korean missile appears to have a range of between 100 to 120 km. It uses an internal guidance system. It's CEP is considered about 100 meters. It is likely to carry conventional, chemical and nuclear warheads.

   In travelling position missile is hidden inside the TEL vehicle, where it is protected from direct hits, environment and NBC threats. It takes less than 20 minutes to launch missile from travelling. Missile is erected to near vertical position, prior to launch. While travelling this missile is hard to intercept due to it's speed and mobility. Vehicle is also capable of rapid redeployment.

   Launching vehicle of the KN-02 missile system is different from the SS-21's. It is most likely based on a Belorussian MAZ 6x6 heavy utility truck. Each TEL carries a single missile. It is supported by a reloading vehicle, fitted with a crane.