Construction of Baltic defence line underway in southeastern Estonia

The Defence Forces, in cooperation with the Estonian Centre for Defence Investment (RKIK), have commenced construction of the Baltic Defence Line in southeastern Estonia. Currently, anti-tank ditches are being excavated along certain sections of the border, with plans to complete 28 bunkers and dozens of storage sites by the end of the year, according to Aktuaalne kaamera.

This initial phase focuses on a test section of the Baltic Defence Line, where the anti-tank ditch is being dug between the border fence and border posts. Lieutenant Colonel Ainar Afanasyev, commander of the Defence Forces’ sapper unit, explained that the ditch measures four meters in width and three meters in depth, Caliber.Az reports per Estonian media.

The RKIK announced that this year, 4.4 million euros will be invested in building defence structures along the border. The anti-tank ditches are constructed based on detailed analysis and operational needs of the Defence Forces. In peacetime, these fortifications will remain integral parts of border infrastructure and support border security.

The construction takes place on state-owned land as well as private and municipal property. When work affects non-state land, the government plans to acquire it through purchase, lease, or land exchange agreements.

By Sabina Mammadli