Moldova Pushes for New Legislation to Develop Interceptor Drones and Boost Security
Moldova's Response to Security Threats from Russian Drones
By Alexander Tanas
Urgency for High-Technology Interceptor Drones
CHISINAU, June 7 (Reuters) - Moldova's President Maia Sandu said the war in neighbouring Ukraine showed that her country badly needed high-technology interceptor drones and new legislation was required to facilitate their manufacture.
Moldova, which is seeking European Union membership by 2030, has dealt with numerous incidents of Russian drones flying over its territory or debris landing in areas near the border.
Recent Drone Incidents and Security Concerns
Sandu, a fierce critic of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, expressed particular concern over a drone last month that struck a residence in Galati, a Romanian city near the border with Moldova and Ukraine, injuring two people.
Legislative Measures for Defense Industry Development
Legislation is needed to allow Moldova, which is defined as a neutral state by its constitution, to develop its arms industry, she said in a podcast with a local blogger that was broadcast on Sunday.
Government Actions and Legislative Amendments
"Those who want our country to be completely defenceless must understand that there is a risk that drones will fall on us and we won't be able to do anything about it," she said.
"I have asked the government, particularly in the context of recent events, to begin introducing or preparing legislative amendments."
Public-Private Partnerships and Foreign Investment
The legislation, she said, would allow for the creation of public and private partnerships for weapons development as well as include provisions for attracting foreign investors.
Collaboration with Ukraine on Drone Technology
Sandu said Moldova had already launched consultations on developing drones with Ukraine, which has acquired expertise from more than four years of countering Russian drones and placed great emphasis on the production of interceptors.
Technology Transfer and Building Local Expertise
"Ukrainians are the best in terms of interceptor drones," she said. "We will try to secure technology from there to the extent that we can with our capabilities. In order to use these technologies, we must first build up a team of experts."
Current State of Moldova's Military Response
Moldova's military has taken no action in more than 20 instances in which Russian drones entered its airspace or drone debris landed near Moldovan settlements.
(Reporting by Alexander Tanas; Writing by Ron Popeski; Editing by Paul Simao)
