US to start training Ukrainian soldiers on Abrams in coming weeks

This was reported by the Associated Press.

It is noted that 31 Abrams tanks will arrive at the Grafenwoehr training ground in Germany in late spring. The Ukrainian military will begin training in a few weeks and it will last approximately ten weeks.

The exercises will not involve the tanks that Washington will provide to Kyiv. The United States is already upgrading 31 M1A1 battle tanks to send to the front line in Ukraine.

"The goal has been to have the troops trained by the time the refurbished tanks are ready so they can then immediately move to combat. The tanks are being refitted to meet Ukraine’s needs," the statement reads.

About 250 Ukrainian troops will be trained. Some will be taught how to drive tanks, others how to repair and maintain them. After the first ten weeks, additional training may also be provided on how to fight and manoeuvre tanks.

• On Friday, April 21, Pentagon Secretary Lloyd Austin announced three main topics to be discussed by the allies at the Ramstein meeting. Air defence, ammunition, and support equipment are on the agenda.