Yemen: Houthis Developing Iranian Ballistic Missile with Chinese Components
- 2026-10-14
- 18:40:52
Sanaa – The Houthis are developing a version of Iran’s precision-guided ballistic missile, the Khaibar Shahn, using components imported from Chinese companies, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal. This move could significantly expand their missile capabilities.
The newspaper cited data from Conflict Armament Research (CAR), an independent UK-based monitoring organization, indicating that the missile's potential range could reach approximately 1,930 kilometers.
The report was based on information provided by Yemeni authorities last July, following the interception of two shipments in 2025 containing missile components concealed among other goods.
The seized components included custom-made metal parts, rocket engine and frame components, fins for flight stabilization, solid-fuel engine parts, testing equipment, and raw materials used in ballistic missile manufacturing.
Among the seized materials was an insulating material designed to protect the missile components from the intense heat generated during launch, the newspaper reported.
Iran uses the Khaibar Shahn missile, which has a range of at least 1,400 kilometers, in its attacks on American targets in the Middle East, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal citing US officials last July.
These missiles are characterized by their low cost, ease of transport, and accuracy. They also use solid fuel, eliminating the need for the pre-launch refueling required by older Iranian missile models.
Fabien Hinz, a senior analyst at Conflict Armament Research, said that the importation of these components could indicate that the Houthis have already begun manufacturing missiles, or are attempting to do so without complete success. He noted that the group's camouflage of weapons production facilities makes it difficult to determine the extent of the manufacturing process.
According to the Wall Street Journal, China maintains its commitment to the UN arms embargo on the Houthis. However, the report indicated that some of the materials imported by the Houthis may have civilian uses, while others are specifically designed for missile production.
The Houthis, who control large areas of Yemen and are designated a terrorist organization by the United States, are subject to a UN arms embargo and have been waging war against the Yemeni government for years.