The CIA is reportedly building a secret air base at an undisclosed location in the Middle East to serve as a launching pad for armed drone strikes in Yemen. According to the Associated Press, the location of the base is unknown, but construction is expected to be complete before the end of the year. The CIA has been assisting the military in the drone attacks in Yemen since 2009, but is now preparing to assume full control. The news comes amidst escalating U.S. drone and intelligence operations in Yemen.