Cointet-element

[1] Each individual fence element weighed about 1,280 kg (2,820 lb) and was movable (e.g. with two horses) through the use of two fixed and one rotating roller.

Following tests, the Belgian Army accepted the Cointet-elements in 1936 after slightly altering the design by the addition of eight vertical beams in the front frame to stop infantry moving through them.

Near main roads they were fixed to heavy concrete pillars set into the ground to allow local traffic passage.

By May 1940 however, due to a relocation programme, the elements did not form a continuous line and thus were easily bypassed by the 3rd and 4th Panzer Divisions.

[5] After the German victory in Belgium on 28 May 1940, the Belgian Gates were reallocated across Europe to serve as barricade elements on roads, bridges and beaches.