UAE air defences intercept six ballistic missiles, 21 drones launched from Iran
Casualties include armed forces personnel and expatriates from several countries
DUBAI – UAE air defence systems on Monday intercepted six ballistic missiles and 21 unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran, the Ministry of Defence confirmed.
The engagement took place on March 16 as tensions continue following what authorities described as blatant Iranian aggression. Defence officials said the country’s air defence network successfully responded to the incoming threats, preventing further escalation and limiting potential damage.
UAE air defences engage 6 ballistic missiles, 21 UAVs
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 16, 2026
The UAE air defence systems on 16th March 2026 engaged 6 ballistic missiles and 21 UAVs launched from Iran.
Since the onset of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 304 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise… pic.twitter.com/KXZDanZjVN
The Ministry of Defence stated that the UAE’s military remains on high alert and prepared to counter any attempts that threaten the country’s security and stability.
Latest interception
According to the ministry, the six ballistic missiles and 21 UAVs were engaged by the UAE’s integrated air defence systems during the latest incident on Monday.
Officials did not provide additional operational details about the interception, but confirmed that the defensive measures were part of ongoing efforts to protect the country’s airspace.
The incident forms part of a broader series of attacks that have taken place since the beginning of the current confrontation involving Iranian-launched projectiles and drones targeting the UAE.
Conflict toll
Since the onset of the aggression, UAE air defence systems have engaged a total of 304 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,627 unmanned aerial vehicles.
The attacks have resulted in casualties among both military personnel and civilians.
Two members of the armed forces were martyred while performing their national duty during the course of the attacks, according to official figures.
Five additional fatalities were also reported among expatriate residents of various nationalities, including Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi and Palestinian citizens.
Authorities said the fatalities reflect the multinational nature of the UAE’s population, where residents from dozens of countries live and work across sectors.
Injuries reported
A total of 145 people have been injured in incidents linked to the attacks so far, the ministry said. The injuries range from minor to moderate and severe.
Those injured include nationals of the UAE as well as residents from several countries across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
The list of affected nationalities includes 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.
Officials said emergency and medical teams have been responding to incidents as they occur, providing treatment and assistance to those affected.
Defence readiness
The Ministry of Defence reiterated that the UAE remains fully prepared to respond to any threats targeting the country.
In a statement, the ministry affirmed that the armed forces and air defence units continue to operate with full readiness to confront any attempts to undermine the nation’s sovereignty, security and stability.
Authorities said the defensive measures are aimed at safeguarding national interests and protecting the country’s capabilities, infrastructure and population amid the ongoing security situation.