Estonia plans nearly 600 border bunkers for 60 million euros

Estonia plans to build nearly 600 concrete bunkers along its eastern border by the end of next year, at a cost of about 60 million euros, ERR reports. The first bunkers in the Baltic Defence Line have been completed near Narva.

The Baltic Defence Line is a network of fortifications being developed by the Baltic states along their borders with Russia and Belarus. Estonia’s section is about 100 kilometres long. Obstacles in north-eastern and south-eastern Estonia are intended to slow an advancing force, while the bunkers will protect soldiers from artillery fire.

Twenty-eight of the planned bunkers have been completed so far. The construction schedule was delayed by disputes over the procurement process, which have now been resolved, said Armin Siilivask, the Defence Investments Centre’s project manager for the line. Work on further strongpoints was originally due to begin in the third quarter of this year.

In north-eastern Estonia, obstacles are the most advanced and have been built wherever possible. Thousands of concrete “dragon’s teeth” have also been stockpiled along the border for rapid deployment if needed.

The completed bunkers will have electricity and communications systems. The armed forces will dig trenches and firing positions beside them. Military engineer inspector Ainar Afanasjev said the positions are being prepared in peacetime so troops can deploy and carry out their tasks if a warning is received.

Afanasjev said Estonia had little time to respond if an adversary crossed the border and could not afford to give up land to gain time, making it important to prepare as much as possible in advance.