Houthis building advanced missile system using Chinese parts, Wall Street Journal reports

As of October 15, 2026, Conflict Armament Research (CAR) reports that Houthi rebels in Yemen are using parts from Chinese suppliers to develop advanced ballistic missiles capable of reaching up to 1,200 miles, putting all of Saudi Arabia and Israel within range. This finding is based on intercepted shipments containing custom metal components for missile motors and airframes, stabilizing fins, and solid-propellant rocket motor parts, which were seized by Yemeni authorities last year. The analysis suggests the Houthis are mimicking Iran’s Kheibar Shekan precision-guided missiles, which have been used in attacks against US forces in the region since 2022. While the extent of Houthi manufacturing capability remains uncertain, these developments raise concerns over regional security and arms proliferation.