Ukrainian forces prepare for a major counterattack on Russian-occupied areas. The Russian military has also prepared itself to ward off it, including the Dragon Teeth trap. Will it be effective?
The British Ministry of Defense stated that the Dragon's Teeth defense was, among others, built in the city of Mariupol. "This Dragon Tooth seems to be installed between Mariupol and Nikolske, and from the north of Mariupol to the village of Staryi Krym," they said, quoted us from The National News.
Dragon Teeth are basically pyramid-shaped concrete, which are driven at least a meter underground to make them difficult to remove. Its purpose is primarily to ward off tanks, which can be damaged or obstructed if forced through them.
Dragon teeth were used by several militaries on the battlefields of Europe in World War II. The Germans made extensive use of it on the Siegfried Line and the Atlantic Wall. Typically, each tooth is 90 to 120 cm high.
Land mines were often placed between them and other barriers built along the lines of the Dragon's Teeth, such as barbed wire to hinder infantry or steel beams placed diagonally. Many Dragon Teeth were also installed in England in 1940-1941, as a means of strengthening the defense against a possible German invasion.
Russia's Dragon Tooth Defense. Photo: Independent
Due to their multiple fitting and robust construction, thousands of Dragon Teeth survive from World War II, especially on Siegfrieds. After World War II, Dragon's Teeth is still used in various countries, for example in parts of the Korean demilitarized zone.
In Switzerland, several Dragon Teeth are installed in strategic areas. Then of course Russia is now using it to contain the Ukrainian army. However due to the short time, it is estimated that the Russian Dragon Teeth are not installed enough. Will it work?
Experts say it is possible that modern tanks will be able to overcome the obstacle using their main gun, unlike in World War II when these weapons were less powerful and less accurate.
Ukraine also has the American-supplied M58 Mine Clearing Line Charge, equipped with explosives to clear obstacles and mines, and could theoretically damage Dragon Teeth. However, because it is only a theory, it remains to be seen how things will turn out in a war situation.