Houthis Develop Long-Range Missiles with Chinese Parts
Houthis are building advanced missiles with Chinese components, threatening U.S. allies and global shipping routes.
2 min read
Iran-backed Houthis are developing long-range ballistic missiles using Chinese-made components, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. The Yemen-based group, which has recently attacked a Saudi airport and killed at least 14 people, including an American, is diversifying its missile arsenal traditionally linked to Iran.
Chinese Parts Enable Extended Range
The Houthis are reportedly using Chinese parts to produce a version of the Iranian Kheibar Shekan precision-guided missile, which could have an extended range of 1,200 miles compared to the Iranian model’s estimated 900-mile range. This increased range puts several U.S. allies, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Israel, within striking distance.
Threat to Global Shipping Routes
The Houthis’ new missile capability could also threaten critical shipping lanes, such as the Suez Canal, one of the busiest and most important waterways in the world. The potential for strikes on these routes could disrupt global trade and energy supplies.
Reduced Dependence on Iran
The acquisition of Chinese components may signal a growing independence for the Houthis from Iran, according to Mohammed al-Basha, founder of a risk advisory firm. He noted the group’s development of domestic manufacturing capabilities, including artificial intelligence for drone and missile software, and its expansion into regional smuggling networks.
Broader Arms Proliferation
The Houthis, along with al-Qaeda and the Yemeni branch of ISIS, have also been using Russian and Chinese anti-tank, man-portable air defense systems, and anti-material rifles, according to previous reports. A 2025 Conflict Armament Research report also highlighted the group’s exploration of hydrogen-powered uncrewed systems, a first for any non-state armed group.
Escalating Tensions
The Houthis have vowed a ‘painful response’ to any U.S. military involvement in the conflict, while Saudi Arabia has reportedly urged the U.S. to join the war. The group’s official slogan, ‘God is great, Death to America, Death to Israel, a curse upon the Jews, victory to Islam,’ underscores the intensity of the regional tensions.
Source: Daily Wire
