UAE air defences destroy nine missiles, intercept 109 drones in one day
Authorities maintain high defence readiness
ABU DHABI – Air defence systems across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) detected and intercepted multiple aerial threats on Friday, as authorities confirmed the successful destruction of several ballistic missiles and drones targeting the country.
The developments come amid ongoing attacks that have prompted heightened monitoring and defensive operations nationwide. Officials said defence systems responded swiftly, preventing the majority of incoming threats from reaching their targets.
According to official figures, nine ballistic missiles were detected on Friday, with all successfully intercepted and destroyed by UAE air defence systems. In the same period, defence systems tracked 112 drones approaching the country.
Latest intercepts
Of the 112 drones detected during the day, 109 were intercepted and destroyed before reaching their targets. Three drones fell within the country’s territory.
UAE air defences intercept 9 ballistic missiles, 109 drones
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 6, 2026
The UAE Ministry of Defence announced that the country’s air defence systems detected 9 ballistic missiles today (6th March 2026), all of which were intercepted and destroyed.
The ministry also reported the detection… pic.twitter.com/E9WHz7AEpC
The latest interceptions form part of a broader defensive effort that has been ongoing since the start of the attacks. Defence systems across the UAE have been continuously monitoring the airspace and responding to incoming threats.
Authorities reported that since the beginning of the attacks, a total of 205 ballistic missiles have been detected. Of these, 190 were destroyed by air defence systems, while 13 fell into the sea and two landed within the country’s territory.
During the same period, defence systems detected 1,184 drones. Interception operations successfully neutralised 1,110 of them, while 74 drones fell within the country’s territory. Officials also confirmed that eight cruise missiles were detected and destroyed.
Casualties reported
The attacks have resulted in three fatalities involving individuals of Pakistani, Nepali and Bangladeshi nationalities. Authorities also reported 112 minor injuries among people of various nationalities.
Those injured include individuals from the UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros and Türkiye.
The UAE Ministry of Defence stated that it remains fully prepared to respond to any threats and to firmly confront attempts aimed at undermining the country’s security. The ministry emphasised that defensive operations are being carried out in a manner that safeguards the nation’s sovereignty, security and stability while protecting its national interests and resources.