The UAE Ministry of Defence has released a staggering assessment of the Iranian assault on the country since attacks began on February 28, 2026, revealing the full scale of one of the most intense missile and drone barrages ever launched against a single nation.
The Numbers Tell the Story
Since the start of the Iranian offensive, UAE air and missile defenses have faced:
- 165 ballistic missiles : 152 destroyed, 13 fell into the sea
- 2 cruise missiles : both intercepted and destroyed
- 541 drones : 506 intercepted, 35 struck within UAE territory
On the second day alone, UAE forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles and 311 drones in a single morning, a testament to the intensity of the ongoing assault.
Casualties and Damage
Despite the unprecedented scale of the attack, casualties remain remarkably limited. Three people were killed, nationals of Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh, while 58 others sustained minor injuries spanning 16 nationalities including Emirati, Egyptian, Filipino, Indian and Iranian citizens.
Some debris from intercepted missiles and drones caused minor to moderate damage to civilian properties across various areas of the country.
The Ministry affirmed the full readiness of UAE forces to address any further threats, stressing that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains an absolute priority.