Australia weighs M1A1 Abrams transfer to Ukraine amid regulatory steps
The Ukrainian portal Kyiv Post has reported on the phasing out of M1A1 Abrams tanks from the Australian army. The publication mentioned that the USA's transfer decision should be a formality.
Washington's approval is necessary as these American-made tanks contain equipment subject to the country's ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) export laws.
Australian M1A1 Abrams for Ukraine?
A total of 59 M1A1 Abrams tanks, ending their service in the Australian army, are under consideration. While the Australian authorities initially showed reluctance to transfer these tanks to Ukraine, they have recently reconsidered. The Australian newspaper "The Sydney Morning Herald" reported that Defense Minister Richard Marles is exploring how the tanks could be delivered to Ukraine.
Kyiv Post suggests that since these Abrams tanks are becoming "available," the United States should not see a problem transferring them to Ukraine. This optimism primarily stems from the fact that this type of tank was delivered to the Ukrainian army, with 31 units handed over in 2023.
What is the M1A1 Abrams equipped with?
The M1A1 Abrams is equipped with a 120 mm calibre gun with a barrel length of 44 calibres. It also has additional armament, including 12.7 mm machine guns and 7.62 mm machine guns. It is approximately 10 metres long, weighs about 57,000 kilograms, and can accelerate to about 65 km/h.
Notably, the United States has supplied Ukraine with tanks featuring modified armour modules, in which tungsten inserts replace standard depleted uranium panels.
Although reports on the Abrams tanks being phased out of service in the Australian army have not yet been published, there are suggestions that they are in good condition. Kyiv Post quotes Michael Shoebridge, a former Australian defence ministry official, who stated, "These tanks are still in good shape. The Ukrainians are fighting a war for national survival so we should get them there as soon as we can."
Senator Simon Birmingham of the Liberal Party of Australia (LPA) told Kyiv Post, "Australian support for Ukraine mustn’t be half-hearted as their fight is also a test of will for all democratic nations."
