UAE intercepts 186 ballistic missiles and 812 drones

Abu Dhabi: The UAE is at the highest level of readiness and possesses the capabilities required to defend its territory regardless of how long the regional escalation continues, the Ministry of Defence said during a government media briefing on Tuesday on the latest developments.

Major General Staff Abdulnasser Mohammed Al Hammadi, the official spokesperson of the Ministry of Defense, said the UAE has advanced defence and armament systems, including national defence industries, enabling it to protect its land and people under all circumstances.

The spokesperson confirmed that since the beginning of the Iranian aggression, the UAE’s air defenses have dealt with 186 ballistic missiles launched towards the country. Of these, 172 missiles were successfully destroyed, 13 fell into the sea, and one ballistic missile landed within the country’s territory.

Additionally, 812 Iranian drones were detected, of which 755 were intercepted, while 57 fell within the country’s territory. Eight cruise missiles were also detected and destroyed. The incidents resulted in some collateral damage, including three fatalities and 68 minor injuries, as well as minor to moderate material damage to a number of civilian facilities.

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The ministry stressed that the UAE maintained a diverse, integrated, and multi-layered air defense system capable of countering various aerial threats with high efficiency. These systems include long-, medium-, and short-range capabilities, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the national airspace.

The spokesperson noted that the sounds heard in various parts of the country were the result of air defense systems intercepting ballistic missiles and UAE fighter jets engaging drones and cruise missiles.

He stated that these military actions demonstrate the full readiness and proactive plans implemented by the armed forces and relevant authorities across various sectors, enabling them to effectively and professionally counter different types of threats.

He further explained that, from a military standpoint, it is well known that intercepting hostile missiles and drones can result in falling debris, adding that all minor injuries and damages reported were not the result of direct strikes on targets within the country.

The spokesperson concluded by affirming that, as a result of highly efficient and professional interception operations—conducted in accordance with approved rules of engagement and operational safety procedures—the air defense systems successfully engaged hostile targets in a timely manner, contributing to minimizing damage and preventing greater loss of life and property.