The first «dragon's teeth» anti-mobile barriers to deter military vehicles have been installed on Latvia's border with Russia. The Baltic Defence Line project includes the use of these structures on land that was expropriated for national security. The work continues in close cooperation with the State Border Guard Service and with the support of a new law that has accelerated the process.
Briefly about the main points
- Latvia installs anti-mobile barriers on the border with Russia.
- The law on anti-mobile infrastructure accelerated the process of land expropriation.
- The Baltic Defence Line project is expected to be completed by 2028.
Installation of anti-mobile barriers «dragon's teeth» on the border
This year, the Latvian National Armed Forces began installing the first anti-mobile barriers on the border with Russia. The barriers, known as «dragon's teeth», are being installed in three rows about ten metres wide. Each element weighs approximately one and a half tonnes, and the gaps between them are so small that tanks and other military equipment cannot break through. About. reports LSM.lv.
The problem of expropriation and the role of the new law
The construction of these barriers required the expropriation of private land, which caused delays. The intervention of a new law on the creation of anti-mobile infrastructure has significantly accelerated the process, allowing the military to start work on private land. The owners are guaranteed fair compensation, which will be determined by a special commission involving certified real estate appraisers.
The Baltic Defence Line and its strategic purpose
Project. The Baltic Defence Line involves not only deterring a potential enemy, but also destroying it at the border in case of a threat. The project commander stressed that control of the land is key in modern warfare, as even with numerous attacks by drones and missiles, holding the territory is crucial.
Future plans and international cooperation
In addition to the «dragon's teeth», there are plans to build anti-tank ditches to enhance defence capabilities. The total length of Latvia's border with Russia and Belarus is about 450 kilometres. In 2026, the National Armed Forces intend to build more than eight kilometres of anti-mobile infrastructure. The project is being implemented jointly with Lithuania, Estonia and Poland and should be completed by 2028.
