Saudi Arabia Seeks Missile Interceptors as Yemeni Attacks Strain Air Defenses

Saudi Arabia is running low on missile interceptors as attacks from Yemen's Houthi forces continue to strain the kingdom's air defenses, and Riyadh has appealed to France, Britain, Pakistan, and Egypt for military assistance, according to a report by the Associated Press.

The appeal, reported on Sept. 16, reflects a widening gap between the volume of incoming drones and ballistic missiles and the supply of defensive munitions available to Saudi forces.

The AP report cited regional officials who said the kingdom turned to allies and regional partners for help defending its airspace after the U.S., its main security provider, declined to intervene directly. One official said Riyadh sought help elsewhere because Washington's own reserves have been drained by its war with Iran [1].

No state has yet pledged military support, and Washington has confined its role to intelligence sharing and planning assistance, according to the same officials.

The shortages have unfolded against a broader regional conflict that has drawn in multiple powers and disrupted global energy markets. https://tinyurl.com/48wk9zcn