Executive Summary

In 2025, in Yemen, the world witnessed a significant improvement in Houthi offensive and defensive air capabilities. With a demonstrated ability to circumvent interception systems in the region and take down drones over Yemeni airspace, Houthi capabilities further pose a credible threat to U.S. and Israeli operations. The Houthi threat is likely to pressure both powers to consider more complex and aggressive retaliatory and defensive tactics when engaging this adversary.  Illicit supply from Iran, homegrown production capacity, and high mobility of the anti-air batteries make it unlikely that the Houthis will deplete stocks needed to sustain their current aerial capabilities.