In Dec. 2021, US media reported that American intelligence assessments and satellite images show that Saudi Arabia is developing ballistic missiles with Chinese support. The images reportedly revealed traces of missile engine castings, remnants of missile propellants, and an alleged missile production facility in the town of Dawadami near Riyadh.

In response to the report, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said China and Saudi Arabia are “comprehensive strategic partners” and “have maintained friendly cooperation in all fields, including in the field of military trade.” The spokesperson added, “Such cooperation does not violate any international law and does not involve the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.” Riyadh has not commented publicly on the matter.

Saudi Arabia is seemingly launching its own ballistic missile program as it perceives a major threat from the expanding missile arsenal of Iran, a major regional rival. This threat perception has been intensified by frequent strikes on Saudi territory from Yemen, which Riyadh blames on Tehran...