Australia Boosts Ukraine's Tank Power with Abrams Transfer

Australia has decided to send 49 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, more than doubling their current force. These tanks, once headed for retirement, are now part of a major security package worth around $164 million. The US had previously sent 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, making the total number 80 once Australia's delivery is complete. The M1A1 Abrams is an older variant of a powerful main battle tank first built in the 1970s. Despite their age, these tanks are highly capable and have been used in combat by Ukraine. However, the limited number has restricted their impact, with Ukraine often relying on its more numerous Bradley fighting vehicles. One of the challenges these tanks face is vulnerability to modern battlefield threats like small drones armed with explosives. To counter this, Ukraine has fitted some of its tanks, including the Abrams, with protective netting to defend against incoming munitions.This transfer marks a change in Australia's stance, as earlier this year, they stated that sending such tanks was not under consideration. Several countries, including the US, have also reconsidered their initial positions on providing certain weapons systems to Ukraine. The Australian Defense Industry Minister, Pat Conroy, emphasized that these tanks will provide Ukraine with more firepower and mobility, complementing the support from other partners for Ukraine's armored brigades. A formal announcement is expected at the upcoming NATO Defense Ministerial meetings. Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the Ukrainian ambassador to Australia, highlighted that the Abrams tanks will be crucial for Ukraine's land defenses. He noted that Ukraine already has teams trained to operate these tanks, which will be vital on the battlefield, especially in defensive lines. Before transferring these American-made tanks, Australia had to get approval from the US. Australia has already received newer M1A2 variants, which were intended to replace the aging M1A1s now being sent to Ukraine.