ABU DHABI, March 4, 2026 – The UAE Ministry of Defence announced that its air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed multiple aerial threats today. Air defenses effectively dealt with 3 ballistic missiles launched towards the country. In addition, 129 drones were detected, with 121 being intercepted and destroyed. Eight of these drones fell within the nation’s territory.
Since the beginning of the blatant Iranian aggression, the UAE’s sophisticated defense network has proven its readiness and capability. Key statistics include:
- Ballistic Missiles:
- 189 detected
- 175 destroyed before reaching targets
- 13 fell into the sea
- 1 fell on the country’s territory
- Drones:
- 941 detected
- 876 intercepted
- 65 fell within national territory
- Cruise Missiles:
- 8 detected and destroyed
Furthermore, a total of 941 Iranian drones have been detected during this period. Air defenses intercepted 876 of these unmanned vehicles, while 65 fell within national territory. The Ministry also confirms the detection and destruction of 8 cruise missiles, which caused some collateral damage.
Regrettably, these attacks have resulted in civilian casualties. We confirm the deaths of three individuals: one Pakistani, one Nepalese, and one Bangladeshi national. Seventy-eight individuals have sustained minor injuries, including nationals from the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, and Afghanistan. The attacks also caused minor to moderate material damage to several civilian sites.
The Ministry wishes to reassure the public that the sounds heard in various parts of the country are the result of our air defense systems intercepting hostile targets.
The United Arab Emirates strongly condemns this military attack, viewing it as a blatant act of aggression and a flagrant violation of our national sovereignty and international law. The UAE reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and will take all necessary measures to protect its territory, its people, and its residents. We will act decisively to preserve our sovereignty, security, and stability, and to safeguard our national interests.
The Ministry of Defence affirms its complete readiness to deal with any threats. We are taking all necessary measures to firmly counter any actions that aim to undermine the country’s security and stability. The safety of our citizens, residents, and visitors is a paramount priority that will not be compromised.
The Ministry urges the public to rely solely on official state sources for information and to avoid circulating rumors or unverified reports.
UAE air defences intercept 3 ballistic missiles, 129 drones
The Ministry of Defence announced that UAE air defence systems successfully intercepted three ballistic missiles today, 4th March 2026, and detected 129 drones, of which 121 were intercepted while eight fell within the… pic.twitter.com/oPvFZqZagn
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 4, 2026