Latvia's T‑55 tanks: Relics in a modern NATO defense strategy
Latvian armed forces conducted tests on fortifications built along the border with Russia. A video released online featuring a T-55 tank caught the attention of some media outlets, which noted that despite recent investments in military modernization, in some respects, the smallest of the Baltic states depend entirely on NATO, particularly when it comes to tanks.
3:48 PM EDT, October 28, 2024
The Ukrainian portal Defence Express, which specializes in military matters, points out that Lithuania and Estonia do not possess any tanks, and in the case of Latvia, the army only has three T-55 tanks. These were acquired free of charge from Denmark in the year 2000. This lack of tanks is due to the Baltic states' longstanding strategy not to rush into purchasing them, under the belief that other NATO member states have sufficient reserves of heavy weaponry to protect Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia in the event of Russian aggression. However, the war in Ukraine has prompted a reevaluation of this approach.
Tests of Latvian border fortifications
The video from the Latvian armed forces highlights the so-called "dragon's teeth," which are distinctive fortifications that all Baltic states have been deploying along the Russian border in recent months.
These constructions are mainly intended to serve as barriers against tanks. However, the T-55 is more of a relic than a tank with real combat value. It's a Soviet design that was introduced into service as far back as 1958. It features a 580-horsepower engine, a 100 mm caliber cannon, and two machine guns. By today's standards, the T-55 falls short in providing the necessary situational awareness, due to its lack of modern sensors and optics, as well as adequate firepower. Additionally, its armor is so weak that the crew is vulnerable to drones.
In Latvia's case, it's not even clear whether the local army has ammunition for the three T-55 tanks. It's possible they now function only as armored vehicles.
NATO tanks in the Baltic states
More modern tanks are present in the Baltic states primarily as part of NATO's enhanced Forward Presence (eFP). For instance, in Latvia, Polish PT-91 "Twardy" tanks are currently stationed and are soon to be replaced by Leopard 2PLs. These will join the Canadian Leopard 2A4Ms, among others.
In early October, the Lithuanian authorities confirmed their preparations to purchase German Leopard 2A8 tanks. Similarly, the Netherlands, which had long been without tanks, has decided to rebuild its armored forces by acquiring these machines.
