Iran changes tactics; switches to new weapons

Data from the defense ministries of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain show that the vast majority of projectiles launched in recent days toward these countries have been drones, most commonly Iranian-made Shahed drones, the agency reports.

The number of cruise and ballistic missiles fired has dropped significantly — from several hundred at the start of the war to just three missiles launched yesterday against the UAE.

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Air defense systems across the region have intercepted the majority of these projectiles.

The UAE, a key U.S. ally, intercepted more Iranian projectiles than its neighbors Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

Drones typically carry a lighter payload than missiles and often cause less destruction, although they can still inflict significant damage depending on the target.

Their lower cost and the ability to launch them in large numbers make them a constant challenge for air defense systems, Bloomberg reports.

Iran’s continued reliance on drones may reflect several factors. The U.S. and Israel have targeted Iran’s missile stockpiles and launch sites since the first attack on February 28, potentially limiting Tehran’s ability to conduct sustained missile barrages.

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