In September 2026, the Iran-backed Houthis launched a series of attacks on strategic sites in Saudi Arabia, utilizing data obtained from Russian satellites. These strikes included a pinpoint attack on the pumping stations of a crucial oil pipeline and assaults on a military airbase.
Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia
Last month, the Houthis executed several significant strikes, including:
- Striking the pumping stations of an oil pipeline, which is critical for Saudi Arabia's economy.
- Attacking a military airbase, resulting in damage to an Italian fighter jet located in a hangar.
The Role of Russian Satellites in the Conflict
According to a private company specializing in geospatial intelligence, between July 1 and October 19, 2026, 40 missile attacks and drone strikes carried out by the Houthis and militias in Iraq were analyzed. In each case, it was found that Russian government and military satellites were orbiting over these areas days before and after the attacks.
Collaboration with Iranian Allies
It is believed that the Houthis and other Iranian allies are leveraging data from Russian intelligence, as well as capabilities from Chinese technologies. Iranian advisors on the ground are analyzing and relaying this intelligence to their allies, enhancing the effectiveness of the strikes.