New Saudi missile site detected in desert, Israel and Iran possible targets

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates -- A prominent defence analysis group says it has identified a previously undisclosed missile site in Saudi Arabia's desert with signs suggesting Iran and Israel could be targeted in a possible launch from the location.

Thursday's report by the London-based IHS Jane's Intelligence Review could escalate concerns about a growing arms race in the Middle East linked to Iran's military expansions and nuclear program.

The report assesses satellite imagery that indicates launch pads oriented in the direction of Israel and Saudi Arabia's longtime regional rival Iran.

Saudi Arabia opposes Israel, but the Western-backed Saudi rulers also share Israel's worry over Iran's nuclear ambitions.

But Jane's also notes the site likely has "limited operational capacity" and potentially serves as a training and storage facility.

There was no immediate comment from Saudi authorities.