Moldova Could Receive Air Defense Systems From EU

The Armed Forces of Moldova may receive air defense systems from partners as part of non-repayable aid.

Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatîi stated this, according to the IPN news agency.

According to the official, the process is at an advanced stage of discussion.

“Air defense systems will detect and destroy aerial vehicles: airplanes, helicopters, or certain types of missiles that fly over the airspace of the Republic of Moldova,” the minister said.

He noted that the final decision was expected to be made in the coming days.

“Our aim is to ensure peace and security, so that citizens feel safe, so that we don’t have cases of illegal airspace violations, and so that drones don’t explode near schools or hospitals,” said Anatolie Nosatîi.

He dismissed rumors that the government would take out a loan to purchase those weapons.

According to Digi24, at the beginning of April it became known that the European Union had been set to approve a new military aid package for Moldova worth €20 million.

The funding is intended to provide “eight short-range air defense systems, each equipped with launchers and 24 missiles.” The delivery of the air defense systems will be coordinated by the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments.

As previously reported, the European Union will provide Moldova with equipment to intercept drones. It is not yet known what kind of equipment is involved. It could be electronic warfare (EW) equipment or other systems.

In March, it was announced that the EU would allocate €60 million to Moldova to support its defense capabilities in 2025. The funds are being provided to enhance the security capacities of the country, which borders Ukraine as it continues its fight against Russian invaders.

Moldova, which aspires to join the European Union, has already received €37 million from the European Peace Facility, making it the second-largest beneficiary after Ukraine.