Moldova neutralizes Gheran-2 suicide drone following Crocmaz crash
Moldovan authorities carried out a controlled detonation of a Gheran-2 kamikaze drone discovered Thursday morning in the village of Crocmaz, Ștefan Vodă district. Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu confirmed that the device, found in a local garden, carried a 50-kilogram explosive payload that remained intact after the initial crash.
The Prime Minister addressed the Cabinet prior to their scheduled meeting, emphasizing that all residents are now safe. He urged citizens to immediately report any suspicious objects to the authorities, warning that such sightings must not be treated lightly given the high risk to public safety.
Technical analysis and response
Police and military experts identified the aircraft as a Gheran-2 model, equipped with a BST-52 warhead and a 493M fuze. Although the drone's fuselage was damaged by power lines and trees during its descent, the explosive mechanism was functional and active upon discovery.
Defense Ministry specialists successfully defused the device on-site before transporting it to a secure location for destruction. The crash caused temporary power outages in Crocmaz after the aircraft severed several electrical cables.
Regional security and defense
Prime Minister Munteanu framed the incident as a clear escalation of the regional security situation. While describing Moldova as a "peace-loving nation," he asserted that the government will continue to increase defense investments to protect its territorial integrity.
The PM also expressed hope that ongoing international efforts, including those at the World Economic Forum in Davos, would lead to a "just and lasting peace" in neighboring Ukraine.
Persistence of risk
Security expert Alexandru Flenchea warned that such incidents will remain a persistent threat as long as the war continues in immediate proximity. He noted that the only true guarantee against these risks is a resolution to the conflict that ensures justice for both Ukraine and Moldova.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
