Houthis still using Iranian components in missiles, expanding arsenal

Conflict Armament Research (CAR) has documented that the Houthis in Yemen persistently rely on Iranian components for their advanced missiles and drones. A new report highlights that missiles recovered in June 2025 bear Iranian designations, such as '358' instead of Houthi names like 'Saqr,' confirming external supply chains remain active. The weapons include anti-ship, surface-to-air, and ballistic missiles, some previously unobserved in Houthi stockpiles, demonstrating expanded offensive capabilities. CAR’s analysis of seized components reveals standardized Iranian labeling, suggesting the Houthis assemble these systems with guidance from external sources. Electronic parts produced in the last two years indicate ongoing procurement of newly developed weapons. Despite a UN Security Council arms embargo since 2015, the Houthis maintain robust supply networks, though they require domestic technical expertise to assemble the missiles. The report underscores the Houthis’ continued threat, particularly after their 2015 rise and attacks on Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Red Sea shipping. CAR’s decade-long investigations confirm the group’s growing arsenal, fueled by Iranian support. The findings emphasize the need for future conflict strategies to account for these advanced capabilities. The Houthis emerged in 2015 from Yemen’s mountains, targeting Aden and forcing Saudi-led Arab interventions. While a ceasefire has held in recent years, their military buildup persists, with CAR documenting drones, ballistic missiles, and underwater weapons. The latest seizures link to at least ten missile types, reinforcing the group’s reliance on external technology despite domestic assembly efforts.