ABU DHABI, UAE – Since Iranian attacks began on February 28, 2026, the UAE has faced a massive barrage of aerial threats. The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that these aggressive actions required extensive efforts from its air force and defence systems to intercept and neutralize the danger.
In an official statement, the Ministry announced that it has so far dealt with a total of 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles, and 541 Iranian drones. The announcement highlights the high readiness and capability of the UAE Armed Forces in protecting the nation’s airspace.
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The Ministry of Defence has announced that the UAE air force and air defence forces have so far dealt with 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and 541 Iranian drones since the start of the Iranian attack.
The ministry said that on the morning of the second day of the… pic.twitter.com/rj8e5iXrQ5
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 1, 2026
Breakdown of Interceptions and Impacts
The Ministry provided specific figures regarding the ongoing defense operations:
- Ballistic Missiles: Out of 165 detected missiles launched from Iran, 152 were destroyed, while 13 fell harmlessly into the sea.
- Cruise Missiles: Two cruise missiles were detected and successfully destroyed.
- Drones: A total of 541 Iranian drones were tracked. Defense systems intercepted and destroyed 506 of them.
Despite the high interception rate, the report noted that 35 drones crashed within UAE territory, and 21 drones struck civilian targets, causing material damage.
On the morning of the second day of the attack alone, UAE forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles (with another eight falling into the sea), two cruise missiles, and 311 drones.
Casualties and Injuries Reported
Tragically, the attacks have resulted in the loss of life and injuries among the diverse population of the UAE. The Ministry confirmed three fatalities, identifying the victims as nationals from Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
Additionally, 58 individuals sustained minor injuries. The injured represent a wide range of nationalities, reflecting the multicultural fabric of the Emirates, including:
- Emirati
- Egyptian
- Ethiopian
- Filipino
- Pakistani
- Iranian
- Indian
- Bangladeshi
- Sri Lankan
- Azerbaijani
- Yemeni
- Ugandan
- Eritrean
- Lebanese
- Afghan
The Ministry also indicated that falling debris from the interception of missiles and drones has landed in various areas across the country, leading to minor to moderate material damage to several civilian properties.
Commitment to Safety
The Ministry of Defence expressed its full readiness to address any future threats, reassuring the public that the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors remains a top priority that cannot be compromised.
Authorities continue to urge the public to rely solely on official state sources for updates and to avoid circulating rumors or unverified information during this critical time.
Follow the official X account of UAE Ministry of Defence here – https://x.com/modgovae