The Yemen-based Houthis have successfully tested a hypersonic missile, according to Russian state media RIA Novosti, quoting a military source close to the group, Al Jazeera reports.

“The group’s missile forces have successfully tested a missile that is capable of reaching speeds of up to Mach 8 and runs on solid fuel,” the source said.

The source added that the Iran-backed Houthis intend to use the rocket, which it will manufacture itself, for military operations in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, as well as on targets in Israel.

The Houthis have been carrying out attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November in protest of Israel’s incursion in Gaza.