UAE air defences intercept 20 ballistic missiles and 37 drones today

2026-03-28 - 14:13

The United Arab Emirates said its air defence systems successfully intercepted a fresh wave of aerial threats launched from Iran on March 28, underscoring the continued escalation in regional tensions. In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed that 20 ballistic missiles and 37 drones were neutralised before reaching their targets. The ministry added that since the beginning of the Iranian offensive, the country’s air defences have intercepted a total of 398 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,872 drones. Despite the high interception rate, the attacks have resulted in casualties. Two members of the UAE Armed Forces were killed while carrying out their national duty, along with a Moroccan civilian contractor affiliated with the military. Eight civilians of various nationalities including Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian, and Indian — also lost their lives. Authorities reported that 178 individuals were injured in the attacks, with conditions ranging from minor to severe. The injured represent a wide range of nationalities, reflecting the UAE’s diverse population. Those affected include citizens and residents from the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden, and Tunisia. The Ministry of Defence stressed that it remains on high alert and fully prepared to respond to any further threats. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty, stability, and national interests, and to countering any attempts to undermine its security.