Chinese Components Now Primary Source for Houthi Drone Parts

Chinese companies have emerged as the primary source of seized goods bound for Houthi rebels in Yemen, providing critical dual-use components including wireless data radios and drone parts. According to United Nations reports and arms experts, the proportion of Chinese-origin military items in Houthi seizures rose from 5% between 2015 and 2018 to approximately 35% between 2021 and 2025.

These supplies have allowed the Houthi rebels to upgrade their drone technology and reduce their reliance on Iranian sponsors. While the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps continues to provide weapons and training, Chinese hardware has increased the operational efficiency of attacks on ships in the Red Sea and targets across the Saudi border. The National Resistance Forces recently seized cargo containing Chinese military-grade screens and radios.

The Government of China denies any wrongdoing, with its embassy in Washington stating that Beijing complies with international arms embargoes and implements United Nations Security Council resolutions. Conversely, former U.N. experts allege that Beijing has turned a blind eye to these shipments and stonewalled requests for information.