UAE announces interception of hostile drones in the west of the country with no internal damage to vital facilities

The Ministry of Defense announced that on May 17, 2026, the UAE’s air defenses engaged three drones that entered the country from the western border, successfully intercepting two of them, while the third struck an electricity generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra region.

The ministry added that investigations are underway to determine the source of the attacks, and that updates will be disclosed once the investigations are completed.

The Ministry of Defense affirmed that it remains on high alert and fully prepared to deal with any threats, and to respond firmly to anything aimed at undermining the country’s security, in a manner that safeguards its sovereignty, security and stability, and protects its national interests and capabilities.