Saudi Arabia Spends Billions on its Military. Why Can't it Stop Deadly Attacks by Iran's Houthi Allies?
October 21, 2026 / 1:46 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Houthi attacks have inflicted severe losses on Saudi Arabia, striking energy infrastructure and civilian airports.
- Saudi Arabia's large defense budget has not prevented successful Houthi attacks, raising questions about its air defense effectiveness.
- Geographical vulnerability, with threats from Iran and Iran-backed militias to the east and north, and the Houthis to the south and west, complicates defense.
- A global shortage of interceptors, particularly for the U.S.-made Patriot system, limits Saudi Arabia's ability to counter attacks.
- The Houthis employ evolving tactics, including launching cheap drones in swarms to distract and exhaust air defenses before missile attacks.
- Saudi Arabia is seeking air defense support from multiple international partners, but interoperability of different systems poses a challenge.
- The kingdom's military structure and culture may also impact its readiness and effectiveness in defending against determined adversaries.