Saudi Arabia Expands Ballistic Missile Production Facility
Summary
Saudi Arabia is expanding a missile factory near Riyadh to produce longer-range ballistic missiles with larger explosive payloads, according to satellite imagery analyzed by US researchers. The move could strengthen its deterrence against Iran and Houthi fighters but also raise concerns about a wider arms race in the Middle East.
Key Points
- Saudi Arabia is expanding its Al-Dawadimi missile factory, about 200 kilometers west of Riyadh, to potentially produce long-range ballistic missiles.
- US researchers from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies identified new structures in satellite imagery that may house solid-fuel missile motor production pits.
- The expansion could improve Saudi Arabia’s deterrence against Iran and Houthi fighters in Yemen, but it may also intensify regional arms-race concerns.
- Analysts say the move may reflect Saudi Arabia’s growing reliance on Chinese missile technology amid US export restrictions.
