Moldovan Special Forces Train for Winter Operations in Romanian Mountains

The "Fulger" Special Forces Battalion of the Moldovan National Army, alongside their Romanian counterparts from the "Băneasa – Otopeni" special forces unit, are participating in the Joint Combined Exchange Training exercises taking place in Romania. This was announced by the Ministry of Defence of Moldova.

The training, which began on January 29th and will continue until February 16th, is being conducted at a training ground in the mountainous terrain of Romania.

The primary objective of these exercises is to enhance the level of joint operational responsiveness, synchronize operational procedures between the military units of the two countries, and develop capabilities for executing special missions. The training program also includes preparation for operations in mountainous winter conditions, advanced marksmanship with various types of weapons, and other specialized tasks.

It's worth noting that in December of the previous year, Moldova organized military exercises near the border with the occupied region of Transnistria, just 22 kilometres from the border with Ukraine. The military preparedness will be conducted in accordance with the National Army's Training Plan for 2023, as stated by the Ministry of Defence of Moldova at that time.

During the same period, the Moldovan Parliament voted on a draft resolution to approve Moldova's National Security Strategy, the first since 2011. Initiated by President Maia Sandu, the document aims to "enhance the state's ability to prevent and counteract risks to national security, as well as to ensure the process of European integration and cooperation with partner states."

Among the security objectives mentioned in the document are the protection of Moldova's independence and sovereignty, ensuring security for all citizens, and the aspiration to join the European Union, where peace is guaranteed.

Moldova's National Security Strategy will be effective for six years and will serve as the basis for other initiatives in this field.

It is also worth mentioning that in 2023, Moldova's defence spending increased by almost 70%, with funds allocated for the acquisition of air defence systems. The necessity for equipping Moldova with air defence systems arose following two incidents of rocket strikes on Moldovan territory during Russia's mass rocket attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.