The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has completed its landmark commitment to provide Ukraine with 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks, reinforcing the long-standing support for Ukraine as it continues to resist Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion.
Valued at approximately $245 million, the donation of vehicles meets a direct request from Kyiv, and forms part of more than $1.7 billion in total Australian assistance delivered since the conflict began, of which more than $1.5 billion is military aid.
The majority of the tanks arrived in Ukraine in July with many already having been deployed to the frontline.
The final tranche was handed over just days ago, primed and ready for battle.
Commander of Operation Kudu – Europe, Colonel James Smith, said the operation to bring the tanks from Australia to Europe had been a major logistical exercise.
“It is a huge undertaking to bring a 60-tonne tank half way across the world and make sure that when we give it to our Ukrainian friends, it is ready to use,” Colonel Smith said.
Lance Corporal Jordan Upton escorted the M1A1s from Geelong, where they were loaded onto a cargo ship for the 55-day sea journey to Europe.
“I was a bit overwhelmed at the idea of being at sea for such a long time,” Lance Corporal Upton said.
“It was kind of scary. I’d never experienced a trip like that, especially on a cargo vessel. Now, being here, I’m proud that we were able to achieve it.”
A contingent of ADF tank specialists, logisticians, mechanics and support staff was waiting for the arrival of the tanks, including Lieutenant Mitchell 'Tex' Walker, for whom this operation had personal meaning.
'It has been inspirational to see Ukraine defend itself and we look forward to opportunities, like this, where we can make a meaningful contribution to defend what’s right.'
“I’m so proud of my team and the work they are doing to get the tanks ready for battle – it’s an honour to be able to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine in their fight against Russia,” Lieutenant Walker said.
“In fact, tank number 51 – one of the Abrams we will be giving to the AFU in the next few days – is the one I finished my Tank Officers Course on last year. I know this tank is going to do its job well.”
The final fit-out and readiness activities took about a week to make sure the tanks were fully prepared before their handover.
“These tanks are a highly capable and proven platform,” Colonel Smith said. “Their delivery will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression.”
Security and intelligence considerations were integrated into every aspect of planning, to avoid jeopardising the successful delivery of the heavy armoured vehicles.
For Corporal Emma Barwick, 22, this was the first time she had been overseas and she felt privileged to be part of the operation.
“The war has been going on for years – people have lost their lives and lost their homes,” Corporal Barwick said.
“It means a lot to think that I can play even a small role in helping them.”
The delivery of the final M1A1 Abrams comes after the Australian Government announced a new $95 million package of military assistance for Ukraine including:
$43 million of ADF materiel and equipment, including tactical air defence radars, munitions and combat engineering equipment.
An additional $2 million contribution to the Drone Capability Coalition, focused on providing Ukraine with advanced drone technologies.
“War is always devastating,” Colonel Smith said.
“But it has been inspirational to see Ukraine defend itself and we look forward to opportunities, like this, where we can make a meaningful contribution to defend what’s right.”
