Saudi Arabia struggles to counter persistent Houthi drone and missile attacks

Saudi Arabia's defence systems have come under sustained pressure from coordinated Houthi attacks targeting critical infrastructure across the kingdom. The Iranian-backed Houthi movement has demonstrated growing technical capability in launching unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles that have successfully breached Saudi air defence networks on multiple occasions over recent years.

Experts attribute the difficulties to several factors, including the sheer volume and variety of weapons systems employed by the Houthis. The rebels have deployed drones of different sizes and specifications alongside conventional missiles, complicating interception efforts and overwhelming existing defence mechanisms at key moments.

The geographic proximity of Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen to major Saudi population centres and economic installations provides the militants with tactical advantages. Shorter flight times for projectiles reduce the response window available to Saudi defence operators, making comprehensive interception increasingly difficult.

Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in air defence systems supplied by international partners and has conducted numerous military operations against Houthi capabilities. However, the group's ability to procure or manufacture replacement systems and adapt tactics has enabled them to maintain offensive pressure despite sustained military campaigns.