Ukrainians thank Australia for the "life-saving" Bushmaster vehicle

The Australian Bushmaster is a piece of military equipment that the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has tagged as a "weapon of victory". It is the fourth feature on the Advent Calendar, a unique event that showcases various measures aiding Kyiv in its defense against the Russian invader each day in December until Christmas. This time, a word of thanks for the support was sent to Australia.

"Today, we extend our gratitude to our Australian allies. Despite the vast distance between our nations, we are united by shared democratic values," stated the representatives of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense. They expressed their appreciation for the Bushmaster transporters, which played a pivotal role in the successful counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region in September 2022.

Bushmasters are known for their high resistance to mine explosions, an attribute that has proven fundamental in safeguarding the lives of Ukrainian soldiers. Their maneuverability and impressive performance in testing terrains are also vital characteristics that permit the execution of complex combat tasks at the front line.

Manufactured by Thales Australia in collaboration with Oshkosh Truck, these versatile wheeled infantry MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) transporters feature a 330-horsepower four-wheel drive and a V-shaped armored hull. This hull design mitigates the risk of tearing upon encountering a mine. The transporter's welded one-piece shell provides protection from handheld gunfire.

The Bushmaster, weighing 26,455 lbs and measuring 23.5 feet in length, 8.1 feet in width, and 8.7 feet in height, boasts a maximum speed of 62 mph and a range exceeding 528 miles. it can comfortably transport between nine and ten soldiers along with their weapons and other equipment. It also features air conditioning for passenger comfort and a Run Flat system that allows the vehicle to continue driving even with punctured tires.

Furthermore, the transporter can be equipped with its own weapons. Mounting rings facilitate the installation of 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm machine guns, such as the universal M60 caliber 7.62 x 51 mm. Additionally, Bushmasters have been observed on the front lines bearing more advanced weapon modules, including the EOS R400-Mk2 with a laser rangefinder and 40 mm caliber automatic grenade launchers.

The Bushmaster is the fourth piece of equipment highlighted in the Ukrainian Advent Calendar. Prior features were the American HIMARS rocket systems, the Polish-made Krab self-propelled howitzers, and the British Challenger 2 main tanks.