In consequence to expanding geopolitical tensions in the region, the Latvian army decided to strengthen its first line of defence on the border with Russia. According to the Latvian public broadcaster LSM, the work on the digging of tank ditches has already begun. The first episode of this strategical infrastructure, which is 20 kilometres long, is to be completed in the next 4 months.
The defensive project, which is carried out close the Terehova border crossing in the municipality of Ludza, includes not only artificial obstacles, but besides uses natural scenery elements specified as swamps, forests and rivers. Colonel Kaspars Lazdins of the Latvian Army underlines that the integrated approach aims to make an effective defensive barrier, capable of stopping a possible invader.
Latvia started building ditches. Dragon teeth and future plans
Anti-tank ditches will be further reinforced by the construction of alleged dragon teeth – concrete obstacles which aim to increase the difficulty of crossing for armored vehicles. Lazdins besides mentioned that in the case of war activities, it is possible to supplement the defence with minefields.
Baltic defence Line
In January that year, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania agreed on a joint plan to build a Baltic defence line. In March, the Latvian government approved a detailed plan, which assumes that the enemy is contained at the border. This task foresees spending of EUR 303 million over the next 5 years.
Strategic limit length
The dimension of the Latvian-Russian border is over 283 kilometres, which poses a major challenge to the Latvian army in terms of securing the area. That is why Latvia has already started strengthening the border. Not only is it crucial for national safety but it is besides part of the wider defence strategy of the Baltic region.
This task reflects the increasing concern of the Baltic States over current and future threats, a major step towards expanding their defence capacity.
mn
Support me, I'm in.
Free media is the most crucial thing today. I am entering Sspile.pl is simply a place where we share not only news, but besides thoughts, analyses and comments on the latest social, political and cultural trends in Poland, Pomerania and Gdańsk. Nobody censors us. Support free journalism.
