Baltic fortifications tested amid NATO tank reliance
The Latvian armed forces have tested fortifications built along the border with Russia. A video released online featuring a T-55 tank captured the attention of some media outlets. These videos remind us that despite recent investments in military modernization, the smallest of the Baltic states remain, in some respects, entirely dependent on NATO. This includes tanks, for example.
The Ukrainian portal Defence Express, specializing in military matters, notes that Lithuania and Estonia do not possess any tanks, and Latvia's army only has three T-55 tanks. These were acquired for free from Denmark in 2000. The Baltic states historically did not rush to purchase tanks, believing that other NATO member states had sufficient reserves of heavy weaponry to protect Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia in the event of Russian aggression. The war in Ukraine has prompted a revision of this approach.
Tests of Latvian border fortifications
The video from the Latvian armed forces focuses on the so-called "dragon's teeth." These are distinctive fortifications that all Baltic states have been installing along their borders with Russia in recent months.
These structures are primarily designed to serve as barriers against tanks. However, the T-55 should be viewed more as a relic than as a tank with real combat value. It is a Soviet design that was introduced into service back in 1958. It features a 580-horsepower engine, a 100 mm caliber cannon, and two machine guns. By today's standards, the T-55 lacks the necessary situational awareness (due to the absence of modern sensors and optics) on the battlefield and fails to deliver adequate firepower. Its armor is so weak that the crew is not even protected against drones.
For Latvia, it's unclear whether the local army even has ammunition for the three T-55 tanks. They may now only be serving as armored vehicles.
NATO tanks in the Baltic states
More modern tanks appear in the Baltic states primarily as part of the NATO enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) initiative. Polish PT-91 "Twardy" tanks are currently stationed in Latvia, and Leopard 2PLs will soon replace them. These will join other tanks, including Canadian Leopard 2A4Ms.
In early October, the Lithuanian authorities confirmed preparations to purchase German Leopard 2A8 tanks. Earlier, the Netherlands, having long been without tanks, made a similar decision and will begin rebuilding its armored forces by acquiring these same machines.
