A Mysterious Airstrip Has Appeared on a Remote Island in Yemen
A newly constructed airstrip on Abd al-Kuri Island, a remote outpost in the Indian Ocean near the Gulf of Aden, has sparked intrigue and speculation about its purpose and the entity behind its development. The island’s strategic location, near one of the world’s most crucial waterways for cargo and energy shipments to Europe, underscores the potential significance of this development.
Satellite imagery dated January 7 reveals a north-south runway under construction, equipped with trucks and heavy machinery. The paved sections bear the designations “18” and “36” at their respective ends. Measuring approximately 1.5 miles long and 150 feet wide, the airstrip could support private jets and medium-sized aircraft upon completion. However, its length suggests it would not accommodate the largest commercial aircraft or heavy military bombers. A missing segment indicates the project is still in progress.
While the airstrip remains unregistered with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), raising questions about its official status, its strategic value is undeniable. Situated within Houthi drone and missile range but far from mainland Yemen, it appears shielded from immediate ground-based threats. The geographic isolation of Abd al-Kuri limits the risk of direct seizure by hostile forces.
The Gulf of Aden has gained heightened significance amid the ongoing conflict involving Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who have disrupted shipping routes through frequent attacks. These disruptions have halved cargo and energy shipments, further emphasizing the region’s vulnerability. The development of the airstrip could signal a broader effort to secure and monitor these critical waterways.
The United Arab Emirates is widely suspected to be behind the airstrip’s construction, aligning with its known initiatives to bolster its strategic military footprint in the region. This follows similar expansions, such as the extended runway in Mocha on the Red Sea and another airstrip near Dhubab in Yemen’s Taiz governorate. Both projects have enhanced the operational capabilities of these locations.
This activity coincides with escalating tensions in the region. The Houthi rebels have launched numerous attacks against US warships in the Red Sea and directed strikes toward other targets, heightening fears of a broader conflict. These developments have amplified concerns about the potential for significant escalation and the broader implications for regional stability.
Experts note the strategic calculus behind these developments. The Gulf of Aden’s proximity to global trade routes makes it a focal point for power projection. The airstrip on Abd al-Kuri may serve as a vital hub for surveillance, logistics, or other military operations aimed at countering threats in the region.
As construction progresses, questions linger over the long-term intentions for the airstrip and the broader implications for regional geopolitics. While its existence reflects the complexities of power dynamics in the Gulf of Aden, its full significance remains to be seen.
