Houthi rebels receive Chinese components and Iranian support

An analysis by the Wall Street Journal, utilizing UN reports and weapons expert data, indicates that Chinese companies have emerged as a new supply source for Houthi rebels in Yemen. These firms provide “dual-use” goods with both civilian and military applications, which are critical for the group's drone technology.

The Houthi arsenal has been bolstered by long-standing support from Iran. Since approximately 2015, Iran's Quds Force has reportedly provided components and instructors to help the group manufacture its own missiles and drones. This technological advancement has allowed the rebels to threaten Saudi Arabia and vital global oil shipping routes.

Key weapon systems identified include several drone models such as the Waid-2 and Waid-1, which are local versions of Iranian Shahed drones, and the Samad-3 reconnaissance drone. Additionally, the group utilizes the Quds-4 cruise missile and the Sayyad anti-ship missile, making them the first non-state actor to deploy such anti-ship missile capabilities.