UAE air defences intercept 10 ballistic missiles, 26 UAVs launched from Iran
Six fatalities and 131 injuries reported across multiple nationalities since start of attacks
ABU DHABI – UAE air defence systems on Thursday intercepted 10 ballistic missiles and 26 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched from Iran, according to authorities.
The interceptions were carried out as part of the country’s ongoing response to a wave of aerial attacks targeting the region.
UAE air defences intercept 10 ballistic missiles and 26 UAVs.
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 12, 2026
The UAE air defence systems today (12 March 2026) engaged 10 ballistic missiles and 26 UAVs launched from Iran.
Since the onset of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 278 ballistic missiles,… pic.twitter.com/e9d4naDCGJ
Officials confirmed that the defensive systems successfully neutralised the incoming threats, continuing a pattern of interceptions since the escalation began.
Latest interception
The Ministry of Defence said the interceptions took place on Thursday as part of active defensive operations across the country. The attacks involved ballistic missiles and UAVs launched towards the UAE.
Air defence units detected and engaged the threats before they could reach their intended targets. The ministry did not disclose the specific locations of the interceptions.
Since the onset of what authorities described as blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have intercepted a total of 278 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,540 UAVs.
The figures reflect the scale of aerial threats the country has faced in recent weeks, with defence systems continuously monitoring and responding to incoming projectiles and drones.
Casualties
According to official figures, the attacks have resulted in six fatalities involving Emirati, Pakistani, Nepali and Bangladeshi nationals. Authorities also reported 131 minor to moderate injuries.
Those injured include nationals from the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana and Indonesia.
The Ministry of Defence affirmed that it remains fully prepared to address any threats. Authorities said the armed forces will firmly confront attempts to undermine state security while safeguarding the UAE’s sovereignty, stability and national capabilities.