British Intelligence: Russia is reinforcing Kerch Bridge defences with barges to protect it from Ukrainian naval drones

The UK Ministry of Defence said on Saturday that Russia is trying to protect a vital bridge and supply line from Ukrainian drones by barge.

Here's What We Know

"Analysis of imagery has revealed the deployment of eight barges on the south side of the Kerch Bridge," the Ministry said in a statement.

"These barges were deployed by Russian troops to protect the bridge and the shipping channel, reducing the approach angles for Ukrainian unmanned surface vehicles (UAVs)," the ministry added.

According to the ministry, the barges were installed between 10 and 22 May. By the way, this is not the first time that barges have been deployed near the bridge connecting Russia with occupied Crimea.

The Kerch Bridge has been a key military artery for the Russians: they use it to transport their military supplies to occupied Crimea and southwestern Ukraine. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, Ukrainians have managed to damage the bridge in two successful attacks.

Source: Ministry of Defence