Australia retires old Abrams tanks, eyes potential transfer to Ukraine
The Defence Express portal reports that Australians are withdrawing the last M1A1 Abrams tanks from service. Next year, they will be replaced by similar but much newer models—the Abrams M1A2 SEPv3 version. The Australian army's rearmament opens up a significant 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 conclude its service. Concurrently, Australia plans to relocate its new machines to the north, which are expected to be delivered in 2025. The M1A2 SEPv3 tanks are set to be stationed at the base in Townsville.
Australia got rid of 59 tanks
Removing 59 Abrams from the army presents an opportunity for the Ukrainians, who have long been monitoring the programme 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diplomats officially appealed to the Australian government to transfer the older machines to Ukraine, including the withdrawn MRH-90 Taipan helicopters.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, Defence Express reminds us that Kyiv's requests have been met with refusals from distant countries. Australia has responded with "organisational arguments," one of which is that the withdrawn Abrams must first be sent to the USA for repairs before being transferred to Ukraine. The specifics remain unclear – Australia has not made a final decision. Still, it is currently withholding the transfer of 59 Abrams, which could augment the total fleet of 31 such machines transferred so far to Kyiv (though some have already been destroyed).
The same machines are already with the Ukrainians
Which specific tanks has Australia withdrawn from service? These are the Abrams M1A1 version, the same ones transferred to Ukraine. However, the Australian equipment included the Situational Awareness upgrade package, outfitting the vehicles with improved thermal cameras for the gunner. Additionally, Australian Abrams are distinguished by the presence of the Far Target Locate system, responsible for better detection and identification of enemy units, as well as improved armour.
The offensive capabilities of these vehicles are ensured by the M256 120 mm gun and machine guns with 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm calibres. The M1A1 Abrams tank weighs approximately 56 tons. Still, this substantial weight is counterbalanced by a 1500 HP engine (a gas turbine capable of running on almost any fuel), propelling the vehicle to a maximum speed of 42 mph.
