Houthis don't stop launching anti-ship ballistic missiles at civilian vessels in Red Sea.

According to information published by the US DoD on 25 May, 2024, the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels launched two anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs) targeting the Red Sea.
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US Navy destroyer USS Gravely firing Tomahawk missile. (Picture source: US DoD)

The Red Sea, a critical corridor for global trade, is frequently used by vessels transiting between Europe and Asia. The launch of ASBMs in this strategic area raises serious concerns about the safety of international shipping and the potential for broader conflict.

The Houthis, who have been embroiled in a prolonged conflict with the Yemeni government and a Saudi-led coalition, have previously demonstrated their capability to target maritime assets. This latest action marks a concerning escalation in their use of sophisticated weaponry supplied by Iran.

The use of ASBMs increases the risk to naval and commercial vessels in the Red Sea, necessitating heightened maritime security measures and potentially leading to higher insurance costs and the rerouting of vessels. The missile launch could invite retaliatory strikes against Houthi missile sites and command structures, leading to a cycle of escalation.

ASBMs owned by Houthis

One notable ASBM in the Houthi arsenal is the Falaq 1. Claimed to be manufactured in Yemen, the Falaq 1 closely resembles Iran's Khalij Fars missile. It is a single-stage, solid-fuel missile approximately 6 meters long with a range of over 200 kilometers (140 miles). It utilizes an electro-optical seeker for target tracking, enhancing its accuracy against moving ships​​.

Another significant missile is the Al-Mandeb 2, a long-range anti-ship cruise missile. This missile, also claimed to be locally produced, shows similarities to Iran's Noor and Qader missiles. It measures about 7 meters in length and has a range of approximately 300 kilometers (190 miles).

The Al-Mandeb 2 is guided by an active radar seeker, providing high targeting accuracy. This missile, along with its predecessor, the Mandeb 1, which is based on China's C-801, represents a robust anti-ship capability​​.