In a significant move to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities, Australia has announced the donation of 49 aging M1A1 Abrams tanks, valued at AU$245 million (approximately US$163 million). This decision was revealed by Defence Minister Richard Marles on October 17, 2024, as the tanks were slated for decommissioning. The donation comes as part of Australia's ongoing military support to Ukraine, which has exceeded AU$1.3 billion (US$866 million) since the onset of the conflict in 2022. The U.S. government has granted permission for this transfer under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, facilitating the process of providing these tanks to Ukraine.
The M1A1 Abrams tanks being donated will be replaced by 75 next-generation M1A2 tanks in Australia's military arsenal. This upgrade reflects Australia's commitment to maintaining a modern and capable defense force while simultaneously supporting Ukraine in its ongoing war efforts. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, expressed gratitude for the donation, calling it a timely and substantial contribution to Ukraine's defense needs.
In addition to the recent donation, Ukraine has been actively upgrading its existing M1A1 Abrams tanks, which were previously supplied by the U.S. These tanks have been enhanced with M-19 Abrams Reactive Armor Tiles (ARAT), providing improved protection against shaped charges and explosively formed projectiles (EFPs) that are prevalent in urban warfare scenarios. The integration of this advanced armor technology has significantly bolstered the defensive capabilities of the Ukrainian tank corps, allowing them to operate more effectively in combat situations.
The combination of Australia's donation and Ukraine's ongoing upgrades to its tank fleet demonstrates a concerted effort to strengthen military capabilities in the face of persistent threats. As the conflict continues, international support remains crucial for Ukraine's defense strategy, with countries like Australia stepping up to provide essential military resources.
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