During 1853 war between Russia and Turkey appeared inevitable. Such a war would destabilise the Near East and interrupt British trade routes to India, and the British army prepared for involvement in the conflict. In July 1853 the Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers, Grenadier Guards and 42nd Highlanders practised their military skills at Virginia Water in Windsor Great Park. From a boat on the lake, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert watched a pontoon bridge being constructed.