Date: March 8, 2026 l Reporter: Mensah
Saudi Arabia’s air defense systems have intercepted and destroyed three ballistic missiles and four drones that entered the Kingdom’s airspace during overnight attacks amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Defense, the missiles were launched toward Prince Sultan Air Base in Al-Kharj, but were successfully intercepted and destroyed before reaching their target.
Authorities also reported that two drones were shot down over the northern area of Riyadh, while another drone aimed at the Shaybah oil field in the Empty Quarter desert was intercepted. A fourth drone was destroyed in the northern province of Al-Jouf.
Defense officials said the attacks appear to be part of a broader pattern in which missiles and drones are launched in waves starting around midnight and continuing throughout the day as regional hostilities intensify.
Saudi Arabia’s air defense systems have reportedly intercepted numerous projectiles in recent days, many targeting strategic military facilities and energy infrastructure, including oil fields and air bases across the Kingdom.
The latest interceptions come as the wider conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States continues to escalate across the Middle East, raising fears of a broader regional war and increasing concerns over energy security and global stability.
Saudi authorities have reaffirmed that the Kingdom remains prepared to defend its territory, critical infrastructure, and civilian population against any further attacks as tensions in the region continue to rise.