UK: Russia builds underwater barrier to defend Crimea bridge
Russia has built an underwater barrier to deter attacks on the Crimea bridge, according to the British Ministry of Defence. The barrier is composed of sunken barges and retaining barriers, and is designed to prevent attacks from unmanned surface vessels, Digi24 reports.
The Crimea bridge is a critical logistical link for Russian forces in occupied parts of Ukraine. The bridge, which spans the Kerch Strait, is the longest in Europe and was inaugurated in 2018. It provides a vital route for the movement of troops and equipment between Russia and Crimea.
Ukraine has attempted to attack the bridge twice since the start of the war, most recently in July with unmanned drones. In response, Russia has deployed a range of passive defence measures, including smoke generators and underwater barriers, as well as active air defence measures.
The British Ministry of Defence said that satellite images taken on August 29 show the underwater barrier in place. The barrier is designed to prevent attacks from unmanned surface vessels, which are small and difficult to detect.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
