Yemen’s Houthi rebels have reportedly added a new, hypersonic missile to their arsenal, according to Russia’s state media, RIA Novosti, citing an unnamed official but not providing concrete evidence. This development comes amid the Houthi’s hints at “surprises” for naval battles against the U.S. and its allies in the Middle East. The Houthis, supported by Iran—who has claimed to possess a hypersonic missile—could challenge the advanced air defense systems of America and its allies, including Israel, with the addition of such a weapon.
A military official associated with the Houthis allegedly stated that the missile, capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 8 and powered by solid fuel, has been successfully tested. Plans to manufacture the missile for use against targets in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Israel were also mentioned. The hypersonic missile’s speed and maneuverability could significantly challenge existing missile defense systems, which are designed to intercept more predictable, ballistic missile trajectories.
Iran, the Houthis’ main benefactor, has been implicated in supplying the rebels with advanced missiles, despite denials and a UN embargo against such actions. Evidence and intercepted arms shipments have linked Iran to weapons used by the Houthis.
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