Drone that exploded in Moldova on 9 August was Russian, early reports indicate

Moldovan Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatîi has stated that the drone that exploded near the settlement of Crokmaz on 9 August is preliminarily considered to be a Russian craft.

Source: Newsmaker, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Nosatîi stated that the specific model of the drone that exploded on Sunday near the settlement of Crokmaz can only be confirmed after the technical examination is completed, but noted that, according to early reports, it is a Russian drone.

"Our experts are examining the object that exploded. Early reports indicate it is a Russian drone. It is a more 'advanced' model compared with those that had previously flown onto our territory," the minister said.

"Russia continues to threaten Moldova's security. The last two incidents involving violations of our country's airspace are a threat to the safety of citizens," he added.

Nosatîi noted that the radars currently available to Moldova's military do not yet cover the entire airspace of the country, and that work is ongoing to strengthen air defence capabilities in order not only to detect but also to shoot down such drones.

Background:

• On 10 August, it was announced that the drone that exploded in Moldova on 9 August is a new type of craft that had not previously fallen on the country's territory.
• Moldova subsequently recalled its ambassador to Russia for consultations following the incident.
• A Russian drone, likely a jet-powered Shahed, again violated Moldovan airspace on 11 August.

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