New military strategy to guide Moldova's defense for next decade - defense minister says

The Republic of Moldova will have for the first time an updated national military strategy, which will serve as a fundamental document for planning the country's defense over the next decade. Minister of Defense Anatolie Nosatîi made the statement before the cabinet meeting where the document is to be approved.

According to the official, the document is a logical continuation of the already developed strategies in the field of national security and aims to concretely define the development directions of the National Army.


"The military strategy of the Republic of Moldova for 2025-2035, which is to be approved today, represents a natural continuation of those already developed in the field of national security – the Security Strategy and the National Defense Strategy. It will constitute the basis for defense planning over the next ten years and will set clear goals for developing military capabilities," said Anatolie Nosatîi.


The minister emphasized that the new document focuses on professionalizing the National Army and modernizing all areas of military activity, in the context of new challenges and technological developments.


"We aim to modernize most areas of activity, as the lessons learned and recent technological developments require the army to continue the transformation process. We will create new units capable of ensuring the security of citizens in all areas – land, air, and cyberspace," the minister stated.


He also mentioned the concrete progress in modernizing infrastructure and equipment, announcing that the Republic of Moldova will receive a new military radar next year, ordered two years ago.


"A radar contracted two years ago is to be delivered next year. These projects take time, but they are absolutely necessary for strengthening our monitoring and defense capabilities. The government and the Ministry of Defense will make every effort to implement this strategy, which targets national security and resilience," he emphasized.


Regarding funding, the minister explained that most resources will come from the national budget, but Moldova will continue to benefit from assistance from international partners.


"The defense of the country is the responsibility of each state. The majority of funds will be secured from the national budget, but we will also utilize support offered by international partners and organizations. The strategy identifies the main development directions, and implementation depends on the allocated resources and political will," stated Nosatîi.


By 2030, the government aims to increase budget allocations for defense to 1% of GDP.


"In line with previous strategies, we aim for a gradual increase in budget allocations for defense to up to 1% of GDP. If the situation allows, we will continue this trend to accelerate the implementation of modernization programs," he explained.


Anatolie Nosatîi also emphasized that the Military Strategy is based on the principle of the permanent neutrality of the Republic of Moldova, enshrined in the Constitution, and that army modernization does not contradict this status.


"Neutrality does not mean passivity. On the contrary, it implies the responsibility to develop an efficient national defense system. The military strategy is based on this principle and reflects our commitment to protecting citizens and national territory, respecting constitutional provisions," concluded Anatolie Nosatîi.