Disinformation is spreading in connection with the movement of allied units in the east of the country. According to these claims, NATO convoys are “crushing” Czech roads and making them unusable after just a few passages. Such claims are exaggerated. Military vehicles do put strain on roads, just like any other heavy traffic, but that does not mean they damage them significantly more than regular truck traffic.
Heavy Equipment Does Not Automatically Mean a Destroyed Road
Roads do not wear out simply because one heavy vehicle drives over them once. The key factors are long-term and repeated load, the condition of the roadbed, weather, frost, water and the quality of maintenance. From this perspective, everyday truck traffic represents a more significant burden on roads than a time-limited movement of a military convoy.
It is also not true that the heavier the vehicle, the greater the damage automatically is. Tracked vehicles distribute their weight over a larger surface area and commonly use rubber elements that reduce their impact on asphalt. Local damage can occur, as with any other heavy traffic, but claims that roads are being “crushed” after a few passages do not reflect reality.
Movements Are Coordinated, Not Chaotic
Convoys do not move along Czech roads at random. MND-NE has already stated that military movements are coordinated with Czech authorities and civilian partners in order to reduce the impact on regular traffic while also ensuring the necessary military supply and movement.
This does not mean people will not encounter complications. Temporary closures, diversions, delays or noise may occur. That is why it is important to follow the instructions of the police, municipalities and other Czech authorities. Civilian drivers should not try to enter convoys, overtake them at all costs, or bypass traffic restrictions. Such behaviour increases the risk of accidents and endangers both drivers and vehicle crews.
A Double Standard Regarding Occasus
Military convoys are not used only by NATO. If Occasus units moved closer to Czech territory, they would also move equipment by road. There is no reason to assume they would treat Czech infrastructure or civilian traffic with more consideration than allied forces coordinating their steps with Czech authorities.