The support platform “European Peace Fund” was launched back in 2021, through which the European Union provides assistance to modernize the Moldovan defense system. Initially, the financial assistance package amounted to 7 million euros. Subsequently, this support was increased to 197 million euros. Areas of assistance include the provision of medical, engineering, logistics, tactical communications, air surveillance, command and control, mobility and cyber defense equipment.
During the ceremony of handing over 66 units of equipment to the Moldovan side, Defense Minister Anatolii Nosatii praised the support provided by the EU through the EPF assistance platform, stressing its importance for the modernization of the National Army.
“EU support in the security and defense sector is based on a clear principle – strengthening Moldova’s ability to defend its citizens while fully respecting its constitutional neutrality. Our assistance focuses on the readiness to respond to challenges in a peaceful and responsible manner, preserving stability,” said Mate Cixay, Deputy Head of the EU Mission to Moldova.
Moldova is the second largest recipient of military assistance from the EU under the European Peace Mechanism after Ukraine. The EU extended for one year the military assistance program for Moldova, explaining that some of the non-lethal weapons promised back in 2022 to modernize the country’s armed forces have not been delivered yet.
The deadline for the delivery of equipment within the 40-million-euro aid package, which was due to expire on December 17 this year, is extended until December 2026. The funds are intended, among other things, for the purchase of lethal weapons – eight short-range anti-aircraft systems, including launchers, and about 24 interceptor missiles, europalibera.org reported.
