The US military’s campaign targeting the Houthi rebel group in Yemen has faced setbacks as the militants have successfully shot down several MQ9 Reaper drones, hindering the operation’s progress. The US aimed to achieve air superiority within 30 days to focus on intelligence gathering and targeting senior Houthi leaders but has been impeded by drone losses. Despite over 700 targets hit and numerous airstrikes, the impact on degrading Houthi capabilities remains uncertain.

US officials reported a significant number of Houthi attacks, including missiles and drones, targeting US forces and allies. The Biden administration’s campaign, with costs nearing $1 billion in three weeks, aims to eliminate the Houthi threat to Red Sea shipping. However, Houthi resilience, underground bunkers, and Iranian support have posed challenges, with limited impact noted in previous campaigns.

While US Central Command highlights achievements in destroying Houthi facilities and reducing attacks, concerns arise over the operation’s cost and resource allocation. Additionally, the use of long-range weapons in the Yemen campaign has raised worries among officials about readiness for potential conflicts, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Despite the challenges, the US administration remains committed to the campaign, emphasizing the need to curb Houthi aggression. The evolving situation underscores the complexities of the conflict and the ongoing efforts to address the threat posed by the Houthi rebels in Yemen.