"The Australian Defence Force has completed its commitment to provide Ukraine with 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks, reiterating its steadfast support for Kyiv in its efforts to counter Russia's campaign", the Australian Department of Defense announced on 19/12/2024.
According to ABC, the first batch of 37 M1A1 Abrams tanks was transferred to Ukraine in 7/2024, with many deployed to the front lines. The remaining 12 tanks were handed over by Canberra to Kyiv over the past two weeks. The total value of this aid package is approximately USD 245 million.
In 10/2024, Australia pledged to provide Ukraine with 49 used M1A1 Abrams tanks, but the transfer process was delayed by nine months, seemingly due to US obstruction. A contractual obligation required Australia to obtain US approval before transferring the tanks to a third party like Ukraine.
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An Australian M1A1 Abrams tank at a location in Poland before being transferred to Ukraine. Photo: ABC |
An Australian M1A1 Abrams tank at a location in Poland before being transferred to Ukraine. Photo: ABC
Australia purchased 59 M1A1 Abrams tanks in 2007, but they were never deployed in combat. These tanks have been decommissioned and will be replaced by a newer M1A2 SEP v3 version.
The US has transferred a total of 31 M1A1SA Abrams tanks to Ukraine, enough to equip one armored battalion. The Ukrainian military previously stated that Abrams tanks would be critical weapons for breaking through enemy defenses, but its forces have sustained significant losses during operations.
Oryx, a Netherlands-based military intelligence analysis site, estimates Ukraine has lost at least 22 Abrams tanks since the type entered combat in 2/2024.
Nhu Tam (According to ADF, Ukrinform)
