UAE air defences engage 9 ballistic missiles, 33 UAVs launched from Iran
Authorities reiterate readiness to safeguard national security
ABU DHABI – UAE air defence systems on Saturday engaged nine ballistic missiles and 33 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched from Iran, authorities confirmed.
The latest interceptions come as the country continues to counter aerial threats amid heightened regional tensions.
Defence systems remain on alert as authorities closely monitor developments in the region.
Air defence interceptions
According to official figures, the UAE’s air defence systems successfully engaged the incoming missiles and drones as part of ongoing defensive operations protecting the country’s airspace.
The operation follows a series of similar engagements carried out since the beginning of the attacks targeting the UAE.
الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية تتعامل مع الصواريخ الباليستية والجوالة والمسيرات الإيرانية.
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 14, 2026
UAE Air Defences engaged Iranian
Ballistic and Cruise Missiles and UAVs Attacks#وزارة_الدفاع #وزارة_الدفاع_الإماراتية#MOD#UAEMinistryOfDefence pic.twitter.com/cAU4TOH5t7
Since the onset of what officials described as blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 294 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,600 UAVs launched from Iran.
The figures reflect the scale of the aerial threats faced during the ongoing escalation, with defence systems continuing to track and neutralise incoming projectiles and drones.
Casualties reported
Authorities said the attacks have resulted in six fatalities, involving Emirati, Pakistani, Nepali and Bangladeshi nationals.
A total of 141 people sustained minor to moderate injuries, including nationals of 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, Indonesia and Sweden.
The Ministry of Defence affirmed that it remains fully prepared to deal with any threats and will firmly confront any attempts to undermine state security, while ensuring the protection of the UAE’s sovereignty, stability and national interests.