Houthis Producing Advanced Ballistic Missiles Using Chinese Parts, Report Claims

The Houthi militant group has begun producing its own advanced ballistic missiles, utilizing components sourced from China, according to a new report from Conflict Armament Research. The group is reportedly shipping a range of parts from a Chinese supplier to create a version of Iran's Kheibar Shekan missile.

Under its current design, the Houthi variant is said to possess a range of 1,200 miles, exceeding Iranian versions by 300 miles. This increased range would place all of Saudi Arabia and Israel within the potential reach of Houthi attacks originating from Yemen. Iran previously used the Kheibar Shekan missile against U.S. bases during military engagements.

The Kheibar Shekan missile is known for its affordability, mobility, and precision. It is also noted for its maneuverability, allowing it to evade missile defense systems. Some variants feature a warhead that detaches during the final phase of flight and uses a small engine to adjust speed and direction, enabling it to strike targets at speeds up to 6,000 miles per hour.

The report is based on information gathered from Yemeni government authorities who intercepted two shipments containing Chinese missile equipment last year. The extent of the Houthis' production capabilities remains unclear, as their weapons facilities are reportedly well-concealed.

Despite being designated a terrorist organization, the Houthis have reportedly strengthened ties with China and other suppliers. Data collected by arms experts and the United Nations indicates that Chinese companies are now the largest source of seized goods destined for the Houthis, with most of the group's U.S.-sanctioned drone parts suppliers based in China.

Henry Thompson, a former expert on the UN's Yemen sanctions panel, told The Wall Street Journal that he believes Chinese companies have been supplying components for solid-fuel ballistic missiles for at least two years. He stated that these missiles allow the Houthis "to reach deep into Saudi Arabia with a bigger payload than cruise missiles and drones," making them "a more potent threat."

Recent weeks have seen an escalation in Houthi attacks. The group has targeted high-profile sites, including the headquarters of Saudi state-owned oil company Aramco in Dhahran, which sustained damage to its upper floors. Saudi authorities reported a "limited fire" at the building. Earlier, debris from an intercepted strike in Riyadh injured one person.

The Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting multiple Houthi threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, targeting Riyadh, Dhahran, and Al-Kharj. The Houthis have described these attacks as retaliation for Saudi actions in Yemen.

These Houthi attacks have repeatedly targeted Saudi airports, military facilities, and oil infrastructure. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has been a frequent target, resulting in casualties and disruptions to air travel across the kingdom.

The Houthis, hardened by years of civil war, are seen as Iran's most effective armed proxy, though they are believed to pursue their own agenda. Their actions are increasing pressure on Saudi Arabia, a key U.S. ally.

Amidst the ongoing conflict, international efforts are underway to broker a ceasefire. A senior Houthi official told The Associated Press that regional and international powers, including Oman, Russia, and China, have reached out in an effort to facilitate negotiations for a comprehensive end to the war and blockade, not just a temporary truce.

Saudi Arabia has sought increased military support from allies like the United States, as regional officials suggest the kingdom is running low on interceptors. The scale of the attacks poses a significant challenge, with experts noting the difficulty of intercepting all incoming missiles and drones from the Houthis' extensive arsenal.