Cairo (Egypt), 12 Oct. (LaPresse/AP) – Saudi Arabia has launched an investigation into how its air defenses failed to intercept a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, including the attack on Riyadh airport that left at least 13 dead and more than 300 injured. Two informed sources told The Associated Press. Sources said the preliminary investigation revealed how the Yemeni Houthis initially launched several drones to pave the way for a mix of cruise and ballistic missiles headed to Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. The Houthis have ballistic missiles and advanced systems equipped with warheads capable of changing direction in flight, which poses a challenge to Patriot interceptors and other defense systems used by the Saudis. One of the sources, a regional official, said the investigation also aims to clarify why air defense systems did not provide timely warning of the attack, during which Houthi missiles and drones traveled more than 1,000 kilometers to reach Riyadh. The Saudi government’s Center for International Communication, which manages relations with foreign media, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Middle East: Riyadh launches investigation into failed Houthi missile interception
Cairo (Egypt), 12 Oct. (LaPresse/AP) – Saudi Arabia has launched an investigation into how its air defenses failed to intercept a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, including the attack on Riyadh airport that left at least 13 dead and more than 300 injured. Two informed sources told The Associated Press. Sources said the preliminary investigation revealed how the Yemeni Houthis initially launched several drones to pave the way for a mix of cruise and ballistic missiles headed to Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. The Houthis have ballistic missiles and advanced systems equipped with warheads capable of changing direction in flight, which poses a challenge to Patriot interceptors and other defense systems used by the Saudis. One of the sources, a regional official, said the investigation also aims to clarify why air defense systems did not provide timely warning of the attack, during which Houthi missiles and drones traveled more than 1,000 kilometers to reach Riyadh. The Saudi government’s Center for International Communication, which manages relations with foreign media, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.