Latvia aims to complete 27km of anti-tank trenches by spring

Latvia plans to complete the first 27 kilometres of anti-tank trenches along its eastern border by next spring, LSM reported. The work is part of the Baltic Defence Line, which also includes concrete obstacles known as dragon’s teeth.

The first two phases of construction call for 89 kilometres of trenches. So far, four kilometres have been dug, while dragon’s teeth have been placed along five kilometres of the border.

In a border area in Balvi municipality, National Guard members have finished positioning the concrete obstacles in three rows. Each weighs 1.5 tonnes and stands slightly more than a metre high. A trench more than two metres deep is planned at the location.

Latvia’s borders with Russia and Belarus stretch for more than 450 kilometres, but obstacles will not be installed along the entire length. Marshes, lakes and dense forests provide natural protection in some places, while artificial barriers are being built where heavy vehicles could move more easily.

National Guard engineer Edgars Briedis said gaps between the obstacles are designed to prevent opposing forces from pulling them out individually. Crossing a trench would require filling it or using a combat bridge, while moving the concrete blocks would require other equipment. The work is set to continue through winter.