Welcome to a ground-breaking development in the Baltic States. An exciting new era of defence strategy is dawning, with Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania taking their security to the next level.
A defensive line is being established along their borders with Russia and Belarus. This recent development is in response to the ongoing security situation, particularly the military conflict in Ukraine involving Russia. Comprising of “anti-mobility defensive installations”, this line is designed specifically to deter and defend against military threats.
A Defensive Move with Historical Echoes
This strategy mirrors border fortification approaches from the 1930s, such as the Maginot Line in France and the Siegfried Line in Germany. It is a nod to the past, with an application relevant for today's geopolitical landscape.
NATO Summit’s Role
The concept of these “defensive” installations aligns with decisions made at the 2022 NATO summit in Madrid. The summit advocated for preventative and local security measures, supporting the Baltic states in their decision. This defensive line will safeguard NATO's eastern flank and limit the mobility of potential adversaries.
Strategic Placement of Installations
The placement of the installations will be determined based on an in-depth analysis of potential enemy plans, the strategic environment, and defense strategies. The construction will be coordinated between the Baltic states, reflecting their united front against potential threats.
Jointly Using M142 HIMARS
This isn't the only move the Baltic states have made in the name of defense. They've also signed a letter of intent to jointly use M142 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) artillery systems. Each state has ordered one from the US, bolstering their defense capabilities.
Switzerland’s Change of Heart
Meanwhile, in Switzerland, there's a shift in their defense strategy. Previously, they had 1500 underground structures up for sale. No longer. The Swiss army now believes these fortress mine-launching facilities might prove useful in the event of an armed conflict. They could serve a variety of military purposes, including providing indirect fire support. This has led to a halt in their sale, illustrating a change in Switzerland's approach to its defense infrastructure.