Why Moldova’s 1% defense budget won’t meet future security demands
The gradual increase in the defense budget to 1% of GDP by 2030 is insufficient, given the National Army's needs for modernization and equipment, as pointed out by security expert Pavel Horea on the "Zi de Zi" program at Radio Moldova.
“NATO member states have set a minimum target of 2%, and there is now public discussion about the possibility of increasing this figure. Clearly, the Republic of Moldova lacks the economic capacity for such an increase. I believe that Moldova will continue to rely on external partners, such as Germany, for the training and equipping of its Armed Forces. Germany has already begun a program to provide the Army with armored vehicles and to offer training programs in which our soldiers will participate. Even this 1% by 2030 will not be sufficient. The strategy does not specify how this percentage will evolve after 2030,” stated Pavel Horea.
In the face of multiple threats, the Republic of Moldova is compelled to enhance its defense capabilities, emphasized Sandu-Valentin Mateiu, a retired commander from Romania.
“This strategy spans 10 years, allocating 1% for the country's defense to develop minimum defense capabilities. That's the gist of it. The strategy highlights that there are current existential threats to the Republic of Moldova, such as the war in Ukraine and the potential for it to approach Moldova, and by extension, us. Another element is the presence of foreign troops on Moldova's territory, but the strategy also states that Moldova does not intend to resolve the Transnistrian conflict through force. Overall, it needs this army to provide the minimum deterrent and ensure the country's defense,” said Sandu-Valentin Mateiu.
It is worth noting that Parliament has approved the National Defense Strategy for 2024-2034. In addition to the main risks to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova, the document includes measures to address economic and energy crises, as well as combating disinformation. Although non-military in nature, these issues can negatively impact the country's security, including the development of defense capabilities.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
