Unlike previous ones: Moldova identifies drone that exploded near Crocmaz

What Moldovan specialists found

According to Nosatii, specialists are already examining the drone that crashed and exploded near the village of Crocmaz. Preliminary information indicates that it is a Russian drone.

The exact model of the UAV will be established later, after which the minister promises to release all the information about the incident.

The minister also noted that this drone model is more advanced than those that have previously ended up in Moldova.

"Russia continues to threaten Moldova's security. The last two incidents involving violations of our country's airspace pose a threat to the safety of our citizens. Regarding the incident in Crocmaz, our specialists are examining the explosive object and, according to preliminary information, it is a Russian drone. It is a more advanced model compared with those that have previously ended up on our territory," Nosatii said.

Air defense problems

The minister acknowledged that the radars used by Moldova's National Army to protect the population from drones do not yet cover the country's entire airspace. He noted that Moldova's defense budget is "the smallest in Europe."

At the same time, the Moldovan army is already purchasing air defense systems to not only detect but also shoot down enemy drones entering the country's territory.

"Russia's aggression against Ukraine continues to threaten our security as well, so we must continue investing in the army's defense capabilities," the minister added.

On August 9, a powerful explosion occurred near the village of Crocmaz. Fragments of a combat drone were found at the site, which Moldovan police described as a "drone-missile."

The following day, Chisinau recalled its ambassador from Russia and called the incident a serious violation of sovereignty.