Russia Fortifies Key Locations in Ukraine: Satellite Analysis Reveals

Satellite analysis conducted by BBC Verify has revealed the extensive defensive structures built by Russia in preparation for a significant Ukrainian counter-attack. With months of standstill and an impending assault, this test is crucial for Ukraine as it aims to showcase its battlefield prowess using weapons provided by the West.

Crimea's West Coast

The coastline, which stretches for 15 miles along the west coast of Crimea, is now populated with defence structures installed by Russian troops. Formerly known for its beach resorts, the coast now features a system of trenches, bunkers, and "dragon's teeth," pyramid-shaped blocks of concrete designed to obstruct the path of tanks and other military vehicles. However, some military experts suggest these defences might primarily serve as deterrents against any bold Ukrainian attempts to attack Crimea by sea, given Ukraine's limited naval capacity​1​​2​​3​.

Tokmak: A Strategic Stronghold

Tokmak, a small city in southeastern Ukraine, appears to have been turned into a fortified military base. Situated on a key route, it could potentially be used by Ukrainian forces to isolate Crimea from other Russian-held territories. A network of trenches has been dug north of the city, presumably in anticipation of an attack from Ukraine. Additional defences in the form of anti-tank ditches, dragon's teeth, and another trench network have been set up behind the city. It is also likely that mines have been concealed between these layers of defence. Similar fortifications have been observed in three other towns near Tokmak​4​​5​.

E105 Highway: A Vital Corridor

The E105 highway, which connects the Russian-held Melitopol in the south with Kharkiv in the north, has been fortified with a line of anti-tank ditches and trenches along a 22-mile stretch. If Ukrainian forces attempt to use this road, Russia will likely target it with heavy artillery from their defences. The road is a strategic asset for the movement of troops in the region, and Russia's defences seem to be aimed at deterring Ukraine's recently built armour units from using it​6​.

Rivnopil: Preparing for Open Ground Defence

Near the village of Rivnopil, approximately 34 miles north of Mariupol, a series of circular trenches have been discovered. These trenches, each with a mound of soil in the centre, possibly to protect artillery or maintain gun stability, suggest Russia's readiness to defend areas of open ground alongside their broader trench network. However, Ukrainian forces may utilise similar satellite images and drone surveillance to identify and avoid these defences​7​.

As Ukraine braces for the imminent assault, the extensive fortifications by Russia as revealed by satellite images underscore the ongoing tension in the region. The potential effectiveness of these defences and Ukraine's response to them remain to be seen in the forthcoming encounters.