Yemen's Houthis Developing Long-Range Missiles With Chinese Components
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Yemen's Houthi rebels are developing long-range ballistic missiles using components from China, potentially capable of reaching Israel and Saudi Arabia. Research indicates an effort to boost domestic production, though missile completion is unconfirmed. The findings suggest reduced reliance on Iran, but Chinese government involvement remains unproven.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Yemen's Houthis are developing long-range ballistic missiles with components sourced from China.
- The missiles, based on an Iranian model, could have a range of approximately 1,900 kilometers.
- Potential targets include Israel and Saudi Arabia, expanding Houthi strike capabilities.
- The development aims to increase domestic manufacturing rather than relying on external supplies.
- Completion of the missile development and operational deployment has not yet been confirmed.
- Chinese government involvement in the Houthi program has not been proven.
The Houthi movement in Yemen is reportedly developing advanced, medium-range ballistic missiles using components sourced from China, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. The findings are based on research by Conflict Armament Research, which monitors weapons and supply chains in conflict zones. The Houthis are said to be attempting to create missiles based on the Iranian "Khyber Shekan" model, with a projected range of approximately 1,900 kilometers. Such a range could potentially enable attacks on targets in Israel and Saudi Arabia, significantly expanding the group's long-range strike capabilities.
The research indicates that the Houthis are seeking to enhance their domestic manufacturing capabilities rather than relying solely on external supplies of finished missiles. Components, including structural parts, solid-fuel rocket motors, and dual-use civilian and military items, were found in shipments seized by Yemeni authorities. A significant portion of these components originated from Chinese suppliers, despite China's stated support for the UN arms embargo on the Houthis.
While the development is ongoing, there is currently no confirmation that the Houthis have successfully completed the missile's development or deployed it operationally. Experts also caution that the presence of Chinese components does not necessarily prove direct involvement by the Chinese government in the Houthi missile program or that China controls the final destination of these parts.
The report also highlights broader advancements in Houthi military capabilities, including domestic production, smuggling networks, and the use of artificial intelligence in missile and drone systems. These developments could lessen the group's dependence on Iran for ready-made weaponry.
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