KUWAIT CITY — Kuwaiti air defenses “dealt with” 15 hostile drones in the past 24 hours, according to an official announcement from the Ministry of Defense on Saturday, March 28, 2026. While many were intercepted, several drones successfully targeted Kuwait International Airport (KWI), causing “significant damage” to its critical radar infrastructure and triggering a major industrial fire that lasted over two days.
The attack is the latest in a series of Iranian-linked strikes targeting civilian and logistics hubs across the Gulf as the regional conflict enters its 29th day.
The Strike on Kuwait International Airport
The assault on the airport has disrupted one of the region’s primary aviation hubs, though authorities are working to maintain limited operations.
- Radar System Damaged: Abdullah Al-Rajhi, spokesperson for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, confirmed that the airport’s radar system sustained major damage. Specialized teams are currently working to restore “full operational readiness.”
- 58-Hour Fuel Fire: The Kuwait Fire Force (KFF) announced today that it finally extinguished a massive blaze in fuel storage tanks at the airport. Supported by the National Guard and the oil sector, teams fought the fire for 58 consecutive hours following an earlier drone impact on March 25.
- No Human Casualties: Despite the extensive material loss, the Ministry of Defense confirmed that no fatalities or injuries were reported from the latest 15-drone wave.
Defense Posture: The “15-Drone” Breakdown
Colonel Staff Saud Al-Atwan, the Ministry’s official spokesperson, provided a briefing on the “hostile drones” detected over the last 24-hour cycle.
- Interception Success: Air defense systems neutralized the majority of the 15 incoming threats, with falling debris being handled by Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units across the country.
- Special Forces Support: The Ministry of Interior noted that Special Forces have been deployed to support air defense personnel, utilizing advanced portable anti-drone technology to protect residential and sensitive zones.
- National Guard Involvement: Kuwait National Guard units also reported downing several drones within their specific areas of responsibility, reflecting a coordinated “all-hands” defense strategy.
Operational Status: Is the Airport Open?
While the radar damage is significant, the airport has not officially announced a total shutdown.
| Status Category | Current Reality (March 28, 2026) |
| Flight Operations | Ongoing with Delays: Emergency protocols and backup radar systems are in use. Passengers are advised to check real-time status. |
| Arrivals/Departures | Several airlines have rerouted or canceled flights; however, KWI’s official portal continues to show active “Today” schedules. |
| Security Alert | Red Alert: Security perimeters have been expanded, and the “Early Warning” smart-device alert system is active. |
What’s Next?
The targeting of Kuwait’s primary civilian airport is seen as an attempt to pressure the country to distance itself from the U.S.-Israeli coalition. As the April 6 deadline for the 15-point peace proposal approaches, Kuwaiti officials have reiterated their “full readiness” to defend national sovereignty. Analysts suggest that if the “Islamabad Channel” fails, Kuwait and other Gulf states may seek more aggressive Western air-defense deployments to protect their critical infrastructure.
