Australia delivers first batch of M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine
The Australian Government has handover the first batch of M1A1 Abrams tanks to the Ukrainian Armed Forces to support its ongoing fight against Russia’s “illegal and immoral invasion”.
Australia agreed to provide 49 Abrams tanks following a request from the Ukrainian Government.
Delivery of the final tranche of tanks is scheduled to take place over the coming months.
The M1A1 Abrams, produced by General Dynamics Land Systems, is equipped with advanced composite armour for increased protection against hostile fire and explosive devices.
The vehicle is equipped with a digital fire control computer for precise ‘point and shoot’ engagement with targets. Its advanced sensor technology enables accurate targeting over long distances regardless of time of day or weather conditions.
The M1A1 Abrams has an operational range exceeding 400 kilometres (km) and speeds topping 60km/h on standard terrain and over 40km/h cross-country.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said: “The M1A1 Abrams tanks will make a significant contribution to Ukraine’s ongoing fight against Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion.
“I was pleased to meet the Australian Army personnel who helped facilitate the delivery of these tanks from Australia to Ukraine. Australia remains steadfast in our support for Ukraine and seeing a just and lasting peace.”
The current support package, which includes these tanks, has an estimated value of A$245m ($159m) and is part of Australia’s broader contribution of A$1.5bn in assistance committed to Ukraine since the conflict began.
In addition to providing military hardware, Australia plans to deploy an E-7A Wedgetail aircraft to Europe in August.
The Australian Defence Force also actively contributes to multinational training initiatives for Ukrainian military forces through Operation Kudu.
Australia Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said: “Australia stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine.
“These modified M1A1 Abrams tanks will deliver more firepower and more mobility to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Data from Stockholm International Peace Research Institute released in March 2025 revealed that Ukraine was the world’s largest importer of major arms in the period from 2020 to 2024, compared to the period from 2015 to 2019.
