Electronic Arts estimates that 5 Million units of Battlefield 3 were sold in the first week of the game's release. The estimate comes from shipped units and other unknown details, but you can bet the game has done well with shooter fans around the world.
Battlefield 3 has even nabbed the top spot on UK sales charts with VP of EA Games Label Patrick Soderlund stating:
From Tokyo to Los Angeles, Sydney to London, millions of fans have been playing all weekend long–we are overwhelmed by the global response to Battlefield 3. It is extremely gratifying to deliver an entertainment experience that delights our fans, and to have the opportunity to introduce new people to the franchise. Already, we are seeing unprecedented play times and online activity which is very rewarding. The launch solidifies Battlefield as a leading entertainment brand.
I think he meant that EA was literally overwhelmed by the number of players hopping online for modern combat. Battlefield 3's multiplayer portion has been spotty on the Xbox 360 and PC throughout the weekend.
As of EA's release, gamers have revived 48 million comrades and destroyed 67 million vehicles… most of which by way of losing control of the jet or helicopter and crashing it into the ground.