UAE air defences intercept 16 ballistic missiles and 113 drones in latest attack
Hundreds of projectiles neutralised since start of Iranian attacks
ABU DHABI – The UAE’s air defence systems intercepted a fresh wave of aerial threats on Sunday, destroying the majority of ballistic missiles and drones detected over the country.
According to official figures, 17 ballistic missiles were detected, with 16 successfully intercepted and destroyed by defence systems. One missile fell into the sea without causing damage. A total of 117 drones were also detected during the incident, of which 113 were intercepted, while four drones fell within the country’s territory.
The latest figures form part of a broader series of attacks detected since the start of the Iranian strikes, with defence authorities continuing to track and neutralise incoming threats.
Latest interceptions
Authorities said the UAE’s defence systems responded immediately after identifying the incoming missiles and drones, successfully neutralising the majority before they could reach populated areas.
UAE air defences intercept 16 ballistic missiles, 113 UAVs
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 8, 2026
UAE air defences today (8th March, 2026) detected 17 ballistic missiles, of which 16 were destroyed, while 1 missile fell into the sea. A total of 117 UAVs were also detected, with 113 intercepted, while 4 UAVs fell… pic.twitter.com/BTikC5pRyd
The interception of 16 ballistic missiles prevented potential damage to infrastructure and residential areas, while the drones that were detected were largely destroyed before entering deeper into the country’s airspace.
Officials confirmed that one missile landed in the sea, while four drones fell within the country’s territory.
Total figures
Since the beginning of the Iranian attacks, the UAE has detected a total of 238 ballistic missiles. Of these, 221 were intercepted and destroyed by defence systems, while 15 fell into the sea. Two missiles landed within the country’s territory.
Authorities also reported the detection of 1,422 Iranian drones during the same period. Of these, 1,342 were intercepted, while 80 fell within the UAE.
In addition to the ballistic missiles and drones, eight cruise missiles were also detected and destroyed by the country’s defence systems.
Casualties reported
Authorities confirmed that the attacks have resulted in four deaths, involving nationals of Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh.
A total of 112 people sustained moderate to minor injuries. The injured include nationals of the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, the Comoros and Türkiye.
The Ministry of Defence said it remains fully prepared to deal with any threats to the country’s security.
Officials reaffirmed that the armed forces will respond firmly to any attempts to undermine the UAE’s security, stressing that defence systems continue to operate at full readiness to protect the nation’s sovereignty, stability and national capabilities.