Is Saudi Arabia expanding its ballistic missile programme?

Satellite imagery analysed by US researchers suggests Saudi Arabia is expanding a missile plant in al-Duwadimi, Riyadh Province, to produce larger solid-fuel ballistic missiles. The reported development comes as Houthi attacks on Saudi cities, airports and energy infrastructure have intensified, raising the strategic importance of the kingdom’s missile arsenal.

Saudi Arabia has reportedly worked with China on ballistic missiles for decades and began domestic production with Chinese assistance in 2021. Its arsenal has included Chinese DF-3 and DF-21 missiles, while debris found in Yemen in September suggested a DF-15A may have been used in combat for the first time. Analysts say local production could give Riyadh greater control over long-range strike capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.