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

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

As reported by Newsmaker, Nosatîi stated that the specific model of the drone that exploded near Crokmaz on Sunday can only be confirmed after the technical examination is completed, but noted that early reports indicate that 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 the ones that have entered our territory before," the minister said.

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

Nosatîi noted that Moldova's military radars do not yet cover the country's entire airspace and that work is ongoing to strengthen air defence capabilities so that such drones can be not only detected, but also shot down.

On 10 August, it was announced that the drone that exploded in Moldova on 9 August was a new type that had not previously landed in the country's territory.

Moldova recalled its ambassador to Russia for consultations following the incident.

Another Russian drone, likely a jet-powered Shahed, violated Moldovan airspace on 11 August.