A cybersecurity center, equipped with American technologies and AI, will be created in the Republic of Moldova. The investment reaches 3,7 million dollars

The Republic of Moldova will strengthen the protection of its telecommunications infrastructure through a new Security Operations Center, which will use American technologies, including artificial intelligence, to detect and manage cyber threats. The project will be developed within Moldtelecom, and the total investment amounts to 3,7 million dollars, of which 1,2 million is a grant provided by the United States. The agreement was signed in Chisinau, in the presence of US Ambassador Joseph Mark Burkhalter, Radio Chisinau broadcasts.

In the context of intensifying cyber and hybrid threats, the Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, Claudiu Năsui, stated that American support also contributes to strengthening the sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova.

“This is not just about supporting us to defend ourselves from cyber threats. It is more than just financial support. It is a powerful confirmation that the Republic of Moldova is not alone. At a time when hybrid warfare and cyberattacks can undermine critical infrastructure, disrupt the functioning of society, and threaten the very foundations of our way of life, your support strengthens our defense capacity.”, said Nasui.

The grant will finance a feasibility study and a pilot demonstration project. It will also cover the work of an American cybersecurity company, which will guide Moldtelecom in developing new technical capabilities. The United States Ambassador to Chisinau, Joseph Mark Burkhalter, stressed the importance of securing telecommunications networks, which he described as critical infrastructure.

“The project will help protect the networks that Moldovan citizens depend on every day to conduct business, access government services, and stay connected with their families, things we all do every day. Telecommunications networks are critical infrastructure. Who builds these networks and who ensures their security matters to every citizen and every company. When Moldova chooses trusted providers and secure technologies, it protects its sovereignty, data, and economic future.”, said Joseph Mark Burkhalter.

The center will operate within Moldtelecom and will use American technologies, including artificial intelligence, to monitor and secure telephone and internet networks. If necessary, the infrastructure could also be used by public institutions or other partners interested in cyber protection services.

Moldtelecom's interim general director, Viorel Motorniuc, stated that the total value of the project reaches 3,7 million dollars, with financing provided by both USTDA and an American partner.

"It will support all of Moldtelecom's critical infrastructure. And we will also provide for public institutions if necessary. But it is mostly created for B2B, B2C partners in the country. It is a grant worth a total of $3,7 million. $1,2 million comes from USTDA. The other $2,4 million comes from an American partner. All data structures, mobile telephony structures, absolutely all data will be secured.", Motorniuc mentioned.

The project is to be implemented within 18 months from the signing of the agreement.

The Republic of Moldova is targeted by cyberattacks daily, many of which are blocked before their effects become publicly visible. According to data presented by the authorities, during the 2025 elections, the country would have been the target of a number of attacks 40% higher than Germany and 60% higher than Romania.