Australia to replace aging Abrams tanks, Ukraine eyes opportunity

The Defence Express portal reports that Australians are withdrawing the last M1A1 Abrams tanks from service. Next year, they will be replaced by similar constructions but much newer ones – the Abrams M1A2 SEPv3 version. With the rearmament of the Australian army, doors open towards a great opportunity to strengthen the forces in Ukraine.

The Australian Ministry of Defence announced that by the end of July 2024, the last M1A1 Abrams tank stationed at the base in Brisbane will have ended its service. Simultaneously, Australia plans to move its new machines to the north, whose deliveries are slated for 2025. The M1A2 SEPv3 tanks are set to be stationed at the base in Townsville.

Removing 59 Abrams from the army is an opportunity for the Ukrainians, who have long been observing the program to replace Australian machines with new tanks from the USA. In 2023, Ukrainian diplomats officially appealed to the Australian government to transfer the older machines to Ukraine (including the withdrawn MRH-90 Taipan helicopters).

However, Defense Express reminds us that Kyiv's requests have so far met with refusals from distant countries. Australia responded with "organizational arguments," one being that the withdrawn Abrams had to be sent to the USA for repairs, from where they could then be transferred to Ukraine. Specifics are still lacking – Australia has not made a final decision, but at this moment, is withholding the transfer of 59 Abrams, which could bolster the fleet of 31 such machines transferred so far to Kyiv (though some have already been destroyed).

Which specific tanks has Australia withdrawn from service? These are the Abrams M1A1 versions, the same ones transferred to Ukraine. However, the Australian equipment included the Situational Awareness upgrade package, equipping the vehicles with improved thermal cameras for the gunner. Additionally, Australian Abrams are distinguished by the Far Target Locate system, responsible for better detection and identification of enemy units and improved armour.

The offensive capabilities of these vehicles are ensured by the M256 120 mm gun and machine guns of 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm calibre. The M1A1 Abrams tank itself weighs approximately 56 metric tonnes. Still, this substantial weight is compensated by a 1500 HP engine (a gas turbine capable of running on almost any fuel), propelling the construction to a maximum speed of 68 km/h.