SANAA, OCT 14: 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.
