By Staff Reporter
Dubai: Air defence systems in the United Arab Emirates successfully intercepted and destroyed nine ballistic missiles detected on Friday, according to a statement issued by the UAE Ministry of Defence.
Authorities said the country’s defence network also detected 112 drones, intercepting 109 of them before they could reach their intended targets. Three drones reportedly fell within the country’s territory, though officials did not indicate any significant damage resulting from the incidents.
The Ministry noted that the interceptions come amid what it described as continued attacks attributed to Iran, as tensions in the region remain high.
Since the start of the attacks, UAE defence systems have detected a total of 205 ballistic missiles, with 190 successfully destroyed, 13 falling into the sea, and two landing within the country’s territory. In addition, eight cruise missiles were detected and intercepted.
Drone activity has also been significant. Authorities reported that 1,184 drones have been detected, with 1,110 intercepted, while 74 drones fell within UAE territory.
Despite the success of the country’s defence systems in neutralising most of the threats, the attacks have resulted in three fatalities involving individuals of Pakistani, Nepali, and Bangladeshi nationalities. Officials also confirmed 112 minor injuries among residents of various nationalities, including Emirati citizens and expatriates from countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
The UAE Ministry of Defence reaffirmed that the armed forces remain fully prepared to confront any threats, stressing their commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, security, and stability while protecting its people and strategic resources.
