Ukraine may receive decommissioned Australian Abrams tanks - media

According to Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian government, in collaboration with the Biden administration, is developing a plan to send these tanks to Ukraine. Initially, it seemed Australia would not provide tanks, but its partnership with the U.S. has opened the door to reconsidering that stance.

The publication also notes that the Ukrainian community in Australia expressed outrage over the sale of decommissioned military equipment, including long-range patrol vehicles and inflatable boats, at an online auction instead of sending them to Ukraine.

Peter Leahy, a former commander of the Australian army, has voiced support for transferring the decommissioned tanks to Ukraine.

“I’m surprised these tanks haven’t been offered to Ukraine yet. Even though they’re being decommissioned, they’re still high-quality equipment with maintenance and spare parts, and Ukrainians need them urgently,” Leahy said.

He added that Australia should load the tanks onto a ship and send them to Ukraine. 

“I definitely wouldn’t want to see these valuable assets destroyed or buried here,” he noted.

Ukraine’s Ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, stressed that tanks are crucial for ground defense. 

“Our soldiers need them and would be grateful to use them if Australia provides them directly or through the U.S.,” Myroshnychenko said.

The outlet also mentioned that Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles, who previously ruled out sending tanks in February, has changed his mind.

“We’re exploring several options with the Ukrainian government,” he stated.

Government sources confirmed that Marles is looking into how to transfer the tanks according to U.S. military export rules.

• On September 6, at the Ramstein meeting, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius committed to providing Ukraine with 12 howitzers valued at €150 million, along with Leopard tanks.