UAE Air Defences Intercept 12 Ballistic Missiles, 17 Drones

UAE Air Defences Intercept 12 Ballistic Missiles, 17 Drones as Iranian attack intensifies and regional security forces respond to protect national airspace

DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates said its air defence systems successfully neutralized the majority of incoming missiles and drones on Monday as regional tensions escalated.

According to the Ministry of Defense, UAE Air Defences Intercept 12 Ballistic Missiles, 17 Drones after detecting multiple aerial threats targeting the country. Authorities confirmed that a total of 15 ballistic missiles were identified during the incident. Defence systems destroyed 12 of them, while the remaining three missiles landed in the sea without causing damage.

The ministry also reported a wave of unmanned aerial vehicles approaching the country. Out of 18 drones detected, 17 were successfully intercepted by air defence systems, while one drone fell within the UAE’s territory. Officials did not provide further details about the location where the drone landed but confirmed that the situation was quickly contained.

The incident forms part of a broader series of attacks linked to the ongoing regional escalation involving Iran. Since the beginning of the strikes, UAE authorities say their defence systems have tracked 253 ballistic missiles aimed toward the country.

Of these, 233 missiles were destroyed in mid-air, demonstrating the capability of the country’s missile defence network. Eighteen missiles fell into surrounding waters, while two landed within UAE territory, according to official figures released by the Ministry of Defense.

In addition to ballistic missiles, Iranian drone activity has also intensified. Officials reported that 1,440 drones have been detected since the start of the attacks. Air defence systems successfully intercepted 1,359 drones, while 81 managed to fall within the country.

Authorities also confirmed that eight cruise missiles were detected and destroyed during the broader period of attacks.

Despite the effectiveness of the defence systems, the attacks have had human consequences. Officials confirmed four fatalities, involving foreign nationals from Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. In addition, 117 people sustained minor injuries, according to the latest official report.

Emergency services and security teams responded rapidly to affected areas, ensuring that injured individuals received medical care and that any debris from intercepted missiles or drones was secured.

The Ministry of Defense emphasized that the country’s military remains fully prepared to respond to any further threats. In a statement, officials said the UAE would take firm action against any attempts to compromise the nation’s safety or stability.

“The armed forces are ready to confront any challenges that threaten the country’s security,” the ministry said, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the UAE’s sovereignty and national interests.

Security analysts say the large number of intercepted missiles and drones highlights the scale of the current regional confrontation. However, they also point to the effectiveness of the UAE’s integrated air defence systems, which combine radar detection, missile interception technology and rapid response coordination.

Regional tensions have intensified in recent days as military activity continues to rise across parts of the Middle East. Governments across the region remain on high alert while monitoring developments closely.

Officials in the UAE have urged residents to rely only on verified information and to follow guidance issued by authorities in the event of further alerts.

For now, the government says the country’s defence systems remain on standby as they continue to monitor the skies for any additional threats.