ABU DHABI, UAE – On March 3, 2026, the official spokesperson for the UAE Ministry of Defense issued a comprehensive update on the nation’s active air defense operations. The latest statement details the exact number of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones that military forces have intercepted since the beginning of the attacks.
The Ministry confirmed that UAE air defense systems continue to operate at maximum capacity to protect the country, successfully neutralizing the vast majority of incoming threats.
To help you understand the scale of the defensive response, here is the updated breakdown of the interceptions:
Ballistic Missiles
- 186 total ballistic missiles launched toward the UAE.
- 172 successfully destroyed by air defenses.
- 13 fell safely into the sea.
- 1 landed within the country’s territory.
Drones
- 812 drones detected in total.
- 755 successfully intercepted and destroyed.
- 57 fell within the country’s borders.
Cruise Missiles
- 8 cruise missiles detected.
- 8 successfully intercepted and destroyed.
UAE air defences intercept 12 ballistic missiles, 123 drones: Ministry of Defence
The UAE Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced that UAE air defence systems intercepted 11 ballistic missiles and 123 drones today, while one missile landed within the country’s territory without… pic.twitter.com/teihyy1oAd
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 3, 2026
Casualties and Material Damage
The official spokesperson also provided a clear assessment of the impact on the ground. While defense systems destroyed all eight cruise missiles, the resulting interceptions caused some collateral damage.
Tragically, authorities confirmed that the attacks have resulted in 3 fatalities. Furthermore, medical personnel have treated 68 individuals for minor injuries. The Ministry also noted that a number of civilian facilities sustained minor to moderate material damage due to the falling debris.
We urge you to remain vigilant and continue following official UAE government channels for all news and safety instructions. Authorities are monitoring the situation around the clock to protect our communities and maintain national security.