Yemen's Houthis Aim to Produce Advanced Ballistic Missiles With Chinese Parts

The Houthi rebels in Yemen are attempting to domestically produce advanced medium-range ballistic missiles, utilizing components sourced from a Chinese supplier, according to a new report by Conflict Armament Research (CAR). The organization, which tracks weapon supply chains in conflict zones, found that the Houthis imported various components necessary for manufacturing a version of Iran's Khaybar-B state hypersonic ballistic missile, considered one of Iran's most powerful. If successful, the Houthi missile would possess a range of up to 1,900 kilometers, capable of reaching all of Israel and Saudi Arabia. Iran first unveiled the Khaybar-B in 2022, describing it as a low-cost, mobile, and precise weapon. The CAR report, revealed by The Wall Street Journal before its official release, is based on information provided by Yemeni authorities in July, after they intercepted two shipments last year containing hidden missile equipment among other goods.

"When you have this kind of import, they might already be producing, or they are trying and it's not really succeeding," stated Fabian Hinz, a senior analyst at CAR. He noted that the Houthis' weapons facilities are so well-concealed that the extent of their production progress remains unclear. The intercepted shipments included custom-made metal components for the missile's engine and body, stabilization fins, and parts for a solid-propellant rocket motor from the Khaybar-B series. Yemeni authorities also seized tools, testing equipment, and raw materials, including a substance designed to protect missile parts from extreme heat during ballistic flight. The new missile is reportedly capable of maneuvering to evade air defense systems.

Shipping documents reviewed by CAR indicate the supplier is a Chinese manufacturer specializing in precision metals, advertising expertise in producing custom parts for the aerospace industry, though its name was not published in the report. Experts from CAR had previously documented the import of similar parts for a shorter-range Burkan missile in late 2024, though the supplier for those parts is unknown. The Khaybar-B is considered more effective than other Iranian missiles due to its maneuverability and ability to evade air defenses. Analysts suggest that in some versions, the warhead detaches in the final stage of flight and is guided by a small engine, approaching the target at approximately 9,600 km/h.

Mohammed Al-Basha, founder of Basha Report risk consultancy in Washington, noted that the Houthis have become more self-sufficient in weapon production after years of reliance on Iran and Hezbollah, who previously supplied them with reassembled missiles. "They have developed local production capabilities with artificial intelligence for drone and missile software, diversified supply chains, gained operational experience, and established connections with regional smugglers and international procurement networks," he said. Henry Thompson, a former expert on the UN Panel of Experts on Yemen, stated there is evidence that the Houthis have been importing components for solid-fuel ballistic missiles from China for at least two years. "With medium-range ballistic missiles, the Houthis can reach deep into Saudi Arabia with a larger payload than cruise missiles and drones. They will be a more serious threat," Thompson warned.

China maintains it respects the UN embargo on arms sales to the Houthis. However, some components are dual-use, applicable for civilian purposes, while others are specifically designed for missiles. Michael Knights, head of research at Horizon Engage strategic consultancy, commented that the use of Chinese components suggests Beijing "has neither the will nor the means to control the final destination of its dual-use technologies." Last year, the U.S. accused a Chinese company of aiding the Houthis in attacking American ships in the Red Sea. This report emerges as the Houthis have intensified attacks on Saudi Arabia in recent weeks, aiming to break Riyadh's blockade.