Australian Defence Base in UAE Struck in Iranian Drone Attack

An air base in the United Arab Emirates used by the Australian Defence Force has been struck in an Iranian drone attack as regional hostilities escalate following recent military actions in the Middle East.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that Australian personnel stationed at Al Minhad Air Base, near Dubai, are safe and accounted for after the strike over the weekend. No injuries to Australian service members were reported.

The base which serves as the operational headquarters for Joint Task Force 633 and supports ADF logistics and operations in the Middle East was targeted as part of a broader wave of Iranian missile and drone strikes across Gulf states.

Iranian forces have launched salvos against multiple military facilities in the region amid retaliatory cycles of violence following recent U.S. and allied air strikes on Iranian territory.

The attack on Al Minhad Air Base in Dubai was carried out using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), according to Marles, and struck the installation without causing harm to personnel.

Defence officials emphasised that the ADF presence at the base primarily supports transport, logistics, and joint missions with coalition partners.

The assault on Al Minhad comes amid a significant escalation between Iran and U.S.Israel aligned forces that has seen ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones launched at military and civilian infrastructure across the Gulf.

Several countries, including the UAE, have reported damage to airports, residences and other facilities as air defence systems engage incoming threats.

Australia is not directly engaged in combat operations alongside U.S. forces in this current conflict but maintains a logistical and support footprint in the Middle East through multilateral arrangements.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Defence Minister Marles have reiterated that while Australia supports efforts to contain regional threats, the country’s military is focused on defensive and support roles, and today’s incident will be subject to further review by defence authorities.