$82 billion a year — and the Houthis are still schooling Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia invests $82 billion annually in an advanced military, yet struggles to intercept cheap drones and cruise missiles flown at low altitudes by the Houthis. Saudi radar is concentrated in the east due to historical fears of Iran and Iraq, leaving the southern border exposed. Researcher Danny Citrinowicz warns of a strategic achievement for Iran in the event of a Houthi victory.

The article reveals the vast gap between Saudi Arabia's defense budget, estimated at $82 billion per year, and the kingdom's operational capability against the Houthi threat. Saudi Arabia has invested in high-end, advanced weaponry but struggles to intercept cheap drones and cruise missiles flying at low altitudes, below ground radar coverage. Saudi radar is mostly concentrated in the east of the country, due to historical fears of Iran and Iraq, leaving the southern border with Yemen exposed. Israeli researcher Danny Citrinowicz warns that a Houthi victory or a political settlement imposed on Saudi Arabia under military pressure would be a huge strategic achievement for Iran and the axis of resistance. The article does not cite Saudi or American sources, relying on analysis from a single Israeli source.