Australia sends 49 Abrams tanks to bolster Ukraine defense
Australia has begun loading Abrams tanks for Ukraine, reports the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. This suggests that Canberra may have received permission from Washington to re-export the American-designed tanks to the front. The transfer of these weapons was initially discussed in October 2024. Since then, Ukrainians have been anticipating the start of deliveries.
Australia has started the process of loading Abrams tanks onto a ship for delivery to Ukraine. However, the government has not disclosed details of the shipment for security purposes. It is known, however, that the shipment involves several dozen vehicles.
Abrams tanks for Ukraine
Australia plans to deliver 49 Abrams M1A1 tanks to Ukraine. The USA previously provided the same models (31 units) in September 2023. These tanks do not have depleted uranium armor, which makes it possible to export them to Ukraine. According to Defense Express, the start of delivery indicates that Canberra secured Washington's approval to provide the Abrams tanks, despite initial skepticism from American officials.
The decision to transfer the tanks was made in October 2024. Previously, Australia hesitated to transfer these vehicles to Ukraine, similar to the case with MRH90 Taipan helicopters, which were ultimately destroyed. Now, however, almost 50 Abrams tanks will bolster the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Delivery process
The transport of the tanks to Europe will take about 25 days if the ship arrives in Greece, or 35 days if it arrives in Poland, according to the source. After the journey, the tanks will need additional upgrades, including enhanced protection through the installation of anti-drone mesh. Only after these modifications can they be used on the front lines.
The M1A1 tank is renowned for its solid armor. Compared to earlier models, it features composite armor with depleted uranium inserts (which are not present in the units being transferred to Ukraine), significantly enhancing its resistance to anti-tank fire. This makes the M1A1 Abrams one of the best-protected tanks of its era. In addition to a powerful cannon, the tank is equipped with an M240 machine gun with a caliber of .30 inches and a heavy M2 Browning machine gun with a caliber of .50 inches. Depending on the version and configuration, it may also be equipped with active defense systems and advanced observation systems.
The M1A1 Abrams tank is powered by a Honeywell AGT1500 gas turbine, generating 1,500 horsepower. Despite its weight of over 66 tons, the tank is highly mobile. It can reach speeds of up to 42 mph on hardened roads and move efficiently in difficult terrain. The hydropneumatic suspension, which underpins the chassis, provides significant stability and driving comfort, crucial during combat operations.
