Economist Veaceslav Ionita has highlighted the rapid growth of Moldova’s aeronautics exports, particularly in the drone sector, which has expanded significantly in recent years.
According to Ionita, Moldova has exported aircraft equipment and aviation components worth approximately $86 million since independence, excluding the sale of MiG fighter jets to the United States in 1997.
“Previously, we exported almost exclusively components for the aviation industry. Today, the Republic of Moldova is already exporting drones. In 2023, drone exports amounted to just $6,000. In 2024, they increased to $68,000, and in 2025 they reached $630,000. For three consecutive years, drone exports have grown by roughly tenfold annually. I like that pace. Yes, $630,000 is not yet a large amount, but it is enough to demonstrate one simple fact: Moldova can not only produce drones — it is already producing and exporting them,” Ionita said.
He noted that the sector’s rapid year-on-year growth reflects the emergence of a developing industry. In 2025, drones reportedly accounted for nearly half of Moldova’s total aeronautics exports, while aviation components made up the remainder.
Ionita also emphasized that the industry receives relatively little public attention despite relying on engineers, researchers, and companies that manufacture and export aerospace components to dozens of countries.
Recently, Maia Sandu warned that security risks for Moldova and the wider region will remain elevated as long as Russia’s war against Ukraine continues, including the threat posed by drones entering Moldovan airspace.
In this context, Sandu stressed the need to strengthen Moldova’s anti-drone capabilities and electronic jamming systems, noting that work is already underway. She also highlighted the importance of developing interceptor drones capable of neutralizing aircraft that violate the country’s airspace.
The president added that she has instructed the government to prepare legislative amendments aimed at supporting the development of such technologies, including through public-private partnerships and the attraction of foreign investment.