Australia has officially delivered the first lot with M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine as part of a military aid package promised in 2024, to support the Ukrainian defense against the Russian invasion.
The shipment includes more than half of the 49 retired tanks promised. The remaining units are scheduled to be delivered over the coming months. These vehicles were part of Australia’s fleet acquired in 2007, which was recently replaced with newer M1A2 Abrams versions.
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The delivery is part of a package worth 245 million US dollars in armored vehicles, as part of Australia’s broader obligation of $ 1.5 billion to Ukraine’s defense since the start of the war in 2022.
Although the chariots were originally promised in October 2024, the delivery was delayed due to requirements for approval from the United States and logistical challenges. US authorities expressed concern about the complexity of the transfer and Ukraine’s ability to maintain Abrams tanks in the field.
Despite the obstacles, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyj and ambassador in Canberra, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, have publicly celebrated the arrival of the vehicles.
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“Every day without these tanks on the battlefield means more lost lives,” Myroshnychenko said, emphasizing the need for quick help.
Ukraine sent its official request for Abrams in February 2024. In August of that year, Australia retired its last M1A1. Less than a year later, the first armored vehicles arrived Ukraine.
In addition to the chariots, Australia will send an E-7a Wedgetail aircraft in August 2025 from the Royal Australian Air Force to support the international auxiliary choruses in Europe. The country also maintains its contribution to Operation Kudu, which supports the training of Ukrainian soldiers.
Ambassador Myroshnychenko also emphasized the need for further equipment, such as Hawkei and Bushmaster vehicles. According to him, most of the 120 Bushmaster vehicles that have already been sent have been destroyed or damaged, and he again asked for the release of the Hawkei fleet.
Source: Australian Department of Defense | X @defenceaust | Wikimedia. This content is made using artificial intelligence and is reviewed by the editorial staff.
