UAE defence systems destroy six ballistic missiles, intercept 125 drones
One missile and six drones fall within country without major damage
DUBAI – Air defence systems in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) intercepted multiple aerial threats on Thursday as authorities detailed the scale of recent attacks targeting the country.
The Ministry of Defence said the systems detected seven ballistic missiles launched towards the UAE, successfully intercepting and destroying six of them. One missile fell inside the country’s territory.
The ministry also confirmed the detection of a large number of drones, with most neutralised before reaching their targets. Authorities reiterated that defence systems remain fully operational and capable of responding to aerial threats as the situation continues to evolve.
Interceptions
According to the ministry, air defence units detected 131 drones during the latest incident. Of these, 125 were intercepted and destroyed, while six drones fell within the UAE’s territory.
The interceptions form part of a broader defensive response since the start of what officials described as the “blatant Iranian aggression”. Defence systems have been deployed across key locations in the country to monitor and neutralise incoming threats.
Officials did not provide additional details about the locations where the missile and drones landed but confirmed that response protocols were activated immediately after the detections.
Attack totals
The Ministry of Defence also released cumulative figures outlining the scale of attacks targeting the UAE since the beginning of the escalation.
According to the ministry, 196 ballistic missiles launched towards the UAE have been detected so far. Of these, 181 were intercepted and destroyed, while 13 fell into the sea and two landed within the country’s territory.
In addition, 1,072 drones have been detected during the same period. Defence systems intercepted 1,001 of them, while 71 drones fell within the UAE.
Authorities also confirmed that eight cruise missiles were detected and destroyed by the country’s air defence systems.
Casualties reported
The attacks resulted in three fatalities, involving individuals of Pakistani, Nepali and Bangladeshi nationalities, according to official figures released by the ministry.
A total of 94 minor injuries were also reported. Those injured included individuals of Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian and Turkish nationalities.
Emergency services responded to the incidents and provided medical assistance where required.
The Ministry of Defence reiterated that the UAE remains fully prepared to address any threats to the country’s security. Authorities stated that all necessary measures continue to be taken to confront potential risks and safeguard the nation’s sovereignty, stability and national interests.