Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis are attempting to manufacture advanced medium-range ballistic missiles using components obtained from Chinese suppliers, according to a report cited by The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday.
– The findings by Conflict Armament Research (CAR), an organization that investigates weapons and their supply chains, indicate that the Houthis have acquired components needed to develop a version of Iran’s Kheibar Shekan precision-guided ballistic missile. The proposed Houthi-made missile could have a range of approximately 1,900 kilometers (1,200 miles).
– The findings are based in part on two shipments intercepted by Yemeni authorities in 2025 containing missile-related components, including parts associated with rocket motors, airframes and stabilizing fins.
– The components were reportedly sourced from Chinese suppliers, highlighting the Houthis’ efforts to diversify their weapons supply chains while reducing their dependence on complete Iranian-made missile systems.
– The group has historically relied heavily on Iranian weapons and technology but has increasingly sought to develop its own manufacturing and assembly capabilities.
– However, the findings do not establish whether the Houthis have successfully completed or deployed a domestically manufactured version of the missile.
– The involvement of Chinese suppliers also does not necessarily indicate direct support from the Chinese government.
– The findings come amid escalating tensions following a series of Houthi missile and drone attacks targeting the Kingdom.
– The potential development of more advanced, locally produced ballistic missiles could significantly complicate regional security efforts, particularly if the Houthis gain the ability to manufacture long-range weapons without relying on shipments of complete missile systems from abroad.