Moldovan government approves new provisions on security of national airspace

Moldova will have a new law on the security of national airspace, establishing clear measures for monitoring, managing and neutralizing aerial risks and threats, as well as strengthening cooperation mechanisms between authorities in this regard. The cabinet approved the draft today.

The aim of the initiative is to prevent, counter and eliminate aerial risks and threats against national security, the integrity of the airspace, aeronautical security, the lives and health of individuals, and property.

Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatii said that the new provisions would allow for efficient interventions in emergency situations, creating the premises for coordinated responses nationally.

“The regional geopolitical context, marked by the military aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, as well as the rapid advancement of drone-type aeronautical technologies, require the adaptation of a modern legislative framework, capable of responding promptly and effectively to new threats. In this regard, current regulations have proven to be outdated and insufficient, in order to ensure proper protection of the integrity of the national airspace,” the minister noted.

According to the official, the adoption of the new law will substantially contribute to protecting the lives and health of citizens, critical infrastructure and state sovereignty. At the same time, it will provide Moldova with a coherent and adaptable legislative tool necessary in the context of new air security challenges, Anatolie Nosatii added.

The draft stipulates that, if verified and confirmed information is received regarding unauthorized use of the national airspace by a civil or state aircraft with a pilot on board, the Ministry of Defense will ensure airspace protection, in accordance with its own plans for regulating aerial situations and competent authorities will cooperate to provide support for ensuring national airspace security.

At the same time, the new provisions state that uncrewed aircraft crossing Moldova's state border illegally can be destroyed, neutralized or their flight taken under control by the Air Force subordinated to Moldova’s Ministry of Defense.

At the same time, for uncrewed aircraft illegally flying over Moldova's airspace and which cannot be intercepted, the Border Police have the right to immobilize or destroy them by disabling the command/control or communication functions.

The draft is to be considered and approved by parliament.