Saudi seeking US targeting support, not more weapons

He says Saudi Arabia is preparing for what he described as a “sequenced, sustained, major air campaign” against the Houthis, and their request for US assistance is focused on intelligence and targeting support.

“The ask from the Americans wasn’t about ammunition,” Obaid said. “They don’t need more military weapons.”

“What they need is aid in target packaging and confirmation,” he said, pointing to geospatial analysis, mapping and other technical support needed to sustain such a campaign.

Obaid said this helps explain why there has been little visible direct US military involvement despite Saudi Arabia seeking support from Washington.

He also said preparations were already beginning to translate into more coordinated operations, reports AL Jazeera.