Saudi Arabia Expands Missile Production Facility in Desert

Saudi Arabia is significantly expanding its ballistic missile production capabilities with a new facility in the Ad-Dawadimi military complex, approximately 200 kilometers west of Riyadh. Analysis of commercial satellite imagery from April 2025 to September 2026, conducted by researchers Sam Layyer and Michael Deutschmann of the Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI), reveals two new structures. The larger building, at least double the size of an existing one, appears designed for solid-fuel rocket engine production, while the second may be for storing flammable materials or missile components. This development is seen as a major technological leap for Saudi Arabia's missile program, potentially enhancing its ability to produce longer-range and heavier-payload missiles.

The expansion includes substantial protective barriers around the new facility, suggesting a focus on solid-fuel propulsion, which offers advantages in storage and rapid deployment compared to liquid-fuel missiles. This is particularly relevant in a region where response time is crucial for deterrence. Analysts suggest Saudi Arabia may already be producing DF-15 missiles and aims to manufacture longer-range DF-21 missiles or similar systems.

This initiative is reportedly linked to China, with historical evidence of Saudi Arabia purchasing DF-3 ballistic missiles from Beijing in 1987. The current expansion is interpreted as an effort to close the strategic gap with Iran, which possesses a substantial arsenal of missiles and drones capable of striking Saudi targets. The development also comes amid ongoing Houthi attacks, supported by Iran, on Saudi infrastructure.

According to researcher Sasha Bruchman, these advanced missiles would allow Riyadh to directly threaten targets within Iran without exposing its F-15 fighter jets to Iranian air defenses. This move is part of a broader regional arms race involving countries like the UAE and Turkey, potentially further destabilizing an already volatile region.

The expansion could also complicate Saudi Arabia's relationship with the United States, particularly as they discuss potential civilian nuclear cooperation. US lawmakers are concerned that Saudi Arabia's enrichment of uranium could be diverted for military purposes. Researchers estimate the new facility could be operational by late 2026, marking a significant step towards greater Saudi military independence and reduced reliance on the US.

For Israel, Saudi Arabia's emergence as a long-range missile producer necessitates monitoring and evaluation of its impact on the regional balance of power. The ultimate use of these missiles, whether for deterrence, defense, or offensive operations, remains to be seen.