Iran-Israel war: Viral footage shared by the UAE’s Ministry of Defense (MOD) showed the Gulf nation’s Apache helicopters shooting down several Iranian Shahed-136 kamikaze drones before they could strike their targets in the capital Abu Dhabi.
Apache helicopters hunt Iranian Shahed drones
A video released by the MOD captured UAE’s Apache attack helicopters hunting Iranian drones and shooting theme down in exhilarating aerial battle.
According to the ministry, the AH-64D Apache attack helicopters were deployed from the United Arab Emirates Joint Aviation Command to counter the Iranian drones. “When it comes to the nation’s security and sovereignty, there can be no compromise,” the Defense Ministry said in a statement.
Iranian drones, missiles pummel Gulf states
Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on US military installations across the Gulf after the US and Israel carried out joint strikes on the Islamic Republic since February 28. Iranian missiles and drones have targeted energy infrastructure in several Gulf countries, while UAE capital Abu Dhabi and Dubai have witnessed extensive attacks from Tehran.
However, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) said its air defense systems have shot down a large number of Iranian missiles and drones. “UAE air defenses are currently dealing with incoming missile and drone threats from Iran,” the ministry said in another social media post.
“The Ministry of Defense confirms that the sounds heard in scattered areas of the country are the result of the air defense systems intercepting ballistic missiles, and fighter jets intercepting drones and loitering munitions,” it added.
How many Iranian missiles, drones fired at UAE?
As per the Ministry of Defense, Iran has fired a total of 189 ballistic missiles at the country since February 28, out of which 175 missiles were intercepted and destroyed by air defense systems, while 13 fell into the sea before reaching land.
“A total of 941 Iranian drones have also been detected, of which 876 were intercepted, while 65 fell inside the country. 8 cruise missiles were also detected and destroyed,” it said.
Read More: UAE: Dubai–Abu Dhabi Live Updates as 22 Missiles and 311 Drones Launched
