First six kilometres of anti-tank ditches dug on Latvia's eastern border
A system of obstacles forming part of the Baltic Defence Line is being built along Latvia's eastern border. The first six kilometres of anti-tank ditches are done, and a 27-kilometre section is due to be completed in spring.
Construction of an obstacle system, which is part of the Baltic Defence Line, continues along Latvia's eastern border. In border municipalities the first six kilometres of anti-tank ditches have already been dug, and so-called “dragon's teeth” obstacles are also being placed. Work is to continue through the winter so that the first 27-kilometre section of ditches can be finished in spring.
Purpose of the system
A ditch alone will not stop a tank, so the plan relies on a combination of obstacles. If necessary, the system would delay an adversary and so buy time for defensive measures.
What has been done and what is planned
The first stage is under way: six of the planned 27 kilometres have been dug so far. The remaining kilometres are scheduled for the coming months, and work will not stop during the cold season. The target date is spring, when the first section is meant to be complete.
The source gives no further details on contractors, costs or exact locations. It says only that the work is taking place in border municipalities in eastern Latvia.
