The Estonian Defence Forces, in cooperation with the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI), have begun constructing anti-tank ditches this week along the country’s southeastern border with Russia. The work is part of the Baltic Defence Line, a major fortification project aimed at stopping a potential military attack from the first metres of Estonia’s territory.
The ditches are being built in Setomaa Parish and will be integrated into a broader defensive zone, which will include barrier elements, storage areas, accommodation facilities, and reinforced strongpoints such as concrete bunkers. Additional elements like barbed wire, dragon’s teeth, and roadblocks have already arrived, with the first strongpoints expected to be completed in the autumn.
Lieutenant Colonel Ainar Afanasjev said the project does not reflect an immediate military threat, but rather demonstrates Estonia’s preparedness and deterrence strategy in peacetime.
The construction is being coordinated with the Police and Border Guard Board, which previously cleared land along the eastern border to improve visibility and prevent damage to infrastructure. Border Guard Chief Veiko Kommusaar added that, beyond military use, the anti-tank ditches could help hinder illegal immigration, noting that other neighbouring countries have already faced targeted migration pressure.
