Russia forms circular defence of Berdiansk airfield – satellite photos

Russians are forming defence lines around the airfield in temporarily occupied Berdiansk.

Source: Defense Express

Details: Planet Labs' satellite images of the Berdiansk airfield from 27 January show that Russians have formed a defence line around a perimeter of 15 kilometres, which consist of trenches and separate positions, including covers for military equipment. In addition, dragon teeth [an anti-tank trench – ed.] are positioned in front of the defence line. 

Defense Express reports that parts of the main defence line are marked red on the satellite images, while dragoon teeth, the construction of which is still ongoing, are marked blue; the inner line of defence, which was established earlier, is marked yellow. 

The anti-tank trenches are put in three rows. As of Friday, 27 January, 30% of the airfield was surrounded by dragon teeth. According to Defense Express, the deadline of these works should have been after 10 January. 

Satellite images reveal that the entrenchments are dug out with heavy machinery, in particular excavators. Ongoing digging out of trenches was also noted near some of the fortifications. 

In addition, the images show nine flying vehicles, eight of which were identified as helicopters, and the ninth as Forpost ISR UAV. Land military manpower and equipment were also observed.

Defense Express believes that Russians have much broader plans for the airfield than just using it as a frontline helicopter base. 

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