{"id":136268,"date":"2026-03-13T13:08:00","date_gmt":"2026-03-13T07:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/?p=136268"},"modified":"2026-03-13T04:21:35","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T22:51:35","slug":"gulf-air-defense-intercepts-3000-iranian-missiles-and-drones","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/index.php\/2026\/03\/13\/gulf-air-defense-intercepts-3000-iranian-missiles-and-drones\/","title":{"rendered":"Gulf Air Defense Systems Intercepts 3,000+ Iranian Missiles and Drones"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

RIYADH\u2014<\/strong> Air defense systems across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have intercepted more than 3,133 Iranian missiles and drones targeting civilian areas and strategic infrastructure as the regional conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel entered its 12th day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Several aviation hubs in the region, including Dubai International Airport (DXB)<\/a> in Dubai and Bahrain International Airport (BAH) in Manama, implemented precautionary measures while maintaining normal operations. Airlines such as Jazeera Airways (J9) continued operating select regional flights despite heightened security conditions across Gulf airspace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Gulf
Photo: Israel Missile Defense Organization<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Saudi Intercepts Iranian Missiles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Saudi Arabia\u2019s Royal Air Defense Forces reported intercepting 25 ballistic missiles and 151 drones since the start of hostilities. Military officials stated that several incoming threats targeted Prince Sultan Air Base near Al-Kharj, located southeast of Riyadh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Air defense units successfully destroyed six ballistic missiles heading toward the base and another missile aimed at the Eastern Province. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additional interceptions included drones approaching the Shaybah oil field, Hafar Al-Batin, and locations east of Al-Kharj.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The defensive actions formed part of broader efforts to protect energy infrastructure and key aviation facilities across the kingdom. Saudi authorities emphasized that air defense units remain on high alert as missile and drone activity continues in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"US
Photo: Lockheed Martin<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

UAE Aviation Incidents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The United Arab Emirates recorded one of the largest volumes of attempted strikes. Defense authorities reported intercepting 270 missiles and 1,475 drones targeting multiple areas of the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Dubai, two drones crashed near Dubai International Airport (DXB), injuring four civilians of different nationalities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Officials confirmed that two Ghanaian nationals and one Bangladeshi national sustained minor injuries, while an Indian national suffered moderate injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the incident, aviation operations continued normally at the airport. In Abu Dhabi<\/a>, emergency teams quickly contained a fire at the Old Abu Dhabi Airport after debris from an intercepted projectile ignited a small blaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Officials stated that missile interception activity and fighter aircraft engagements were responsible for loud explosions heard across several cities. Authorities reassured residents that defense systems remain capable of responding to aerial threats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Patriot surface-to-air missiles | Photo: NATO<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Gulf Security Response<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Several Gulf states reported defensive operations against incoming Iranian projectiles. According to Aawasat<\/a>, Kuwait confirmed intercepting 239 missiles and 456 drones during the conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Qatar\u2019s armed forces repelled a missile attack, after which authorities advised residents to remain indoors temporarily until the security threat subsided. Officials later confirmed that conditions had returned to normal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bahrain reported hearing multiple explosions across different areas of the country, prompting the activation of warning sirens. Authorities relocated several aircraft from Bahrain International Airport (BAH) to alternate airports as a precaution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oman also intercepted several drones near coastal areas. Some unmanned aircraft struck fuel storage tanks at the Port of Salalah, though officials reported no casualties and confirmed that petroleum supplies remain stable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a separate maritime incident, a container ship approximately 25 nautical miles northwest of Ras Al Khaimah reported damage from a suspected projectile. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

All crew members remained safe while authorities launched an investigation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Drone Incident Near Dubai International Airport Injures Four Amid Iran Conflict<\/a><\/blockquote>