UAE Shoots Down Iranian Drones, Missiles With Apache Helicopters

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) military has successfully intercepted and destroyed several Iranian drones and missiles that were heading toward the country, according to the UAE Ministry of Defence.

A video released by the Ministry on the social media platform X shows AH-64D Apache attack helicopters from the United Arab Emirates Joint Aviation Command in action during the defence operation. The footage captures incoming unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) being detected by radar, tracked in the sky, and then shot down before reaching their targets.

In an official statement, the Ministry of Defence said that protecting the country’s sovereignty and security remains its top priority.

“There can be no compromise when it comes to the nation’s security and sovereignty,” the ministry said.

Authorities confirmed that UAE air defence systems are actively responding to missile and drone threats coming from Iran.

Sirens Heard in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

On Saturday evening, warning sirens and alarms were heard in several areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Ministry of Defence later clarified that the sounds were linked to air defence systems intercepting ballistic missiles and fighter jets targeting drones and loitering munitions in the sky.

Hundreds of Missiles and Drones Detected

According to UAE officials, since the beginning of what they described as “blatant Iranian aggression,” the country has detected a large number of incoming threats.

Authorities reported that:

• 189 ballistic missiles were detected

• 175 missiles were intercepted and destroyed by air defence systems

• 13 missiles fell into the sea before reaching land

• 1 missile landed inside UAE territory

In addition, the UAE military detected 941 Iranian drones during the same period. Out of these:

• 876 drones were intercepted and destroyed

• 65 drones fell within UAE territory

The Ministry of Defence also confirmed that eight cruise missiles were detected and successfully destroyed by UAE defence systems.

UAE Forces on High Alert

The UAE Armed Forces stated that they remain fully prepared to respond to any threat against the country. Officials emphasized that the military continues to monitor the situation closely and will take all necessary steps to protect the nation.

The ministry reiterated that UAE air defence units are currently active and ready to counter any further missile or drone attacks.