History repeats as weapon used by Romans is deployed by Ukraine against Russia

A simple, but effective device that has been used since the days of the Roman Empire is being used to disrupt Russian vehicles in Ukraine.

The caltrop is a four-pronged, heavy-gauge steel spike which can be used to puncture tyres and disable vehicles. 

Caltrops have been used throughout history - but usually as a means of crippling cavalry horses or infantry.

Due to its four-pronged design, one spike of the caltrop is always facing upwards, waiting to be trodden on by a hoof or foot - or in this case driven over by a wheel. 

• Rome comes to Scotland – The lost battle of Mons Graupius
• UK pledges record £500m in Ukrainian aid as PM warns Putin won't stop
• Russia's bizarre anti-drone Turtle Tank believed destroyed by Ukrainian artillery