From China to Yemen: Seized Shipment Reveals Houthi Drone Factory in a Box

In a second major seizure since June, this marks the first clear evidence that the Houthis are attempting to set up a semi-industrial drone production line using equipment sourced from China.

On August 2, 2025, the Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) in Aden, in coordination with the Office of the Attorney General, the Customs Authority, and Free Zone Security at the Port of Aden, intercepted at least one container aboard a commercial vessel arriving from China.

This is the first time clear and comprehensive evidence has emerged showing that the Houthis are attempting to establish a self-sustaining drone and missile manufacturing capability using Chinese-sourced equipment. The intercepted shipment included not only complete …