Australia sends a batch of Abrams tanks to Ukraine, despite US dissatisfaction

During a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albenizi, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that M1A1 Abrams tanks donated by Australia are already helping Ukrainian soldiers at the front.

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Zelenskyy thanked the Australian leader for his support and stressed the importance of allies from different continents in Ukraine's struggle for independence. During the meeting, the parties discussed further support for Ukraine and the possible participation of the Australian army in the international coalition.

Australia has announced the transfer of 49 M1A1 AIM-SA tanks to Ukraine, which were previously used in two armoured regiments from 2007 to 2024. However, the transfer process was slightly delayed due to the suspension of US military aid in March 2025, which affected the operation of the logistics centre in Poland.

Australian defence officials also partially blamed the United States for the delay, as formal permission to transfer the tanks to another country had not yet been granted.

Prior to the shipment, the vehicles underwent light repairs and dismantling of classified systems used by the Australian army. The transfer of these tanks will bring the total number of Abrams tanks in Ukraine's service to 85, including the 31 tanks previously received from the United States.

Source: Telegram