**Australian Abrams Tanks Head to Ukraine, Despite US Frustration**
The first of 49 American-made Abrams tanks bound for Ukraine has begun its journey across the ocean. But behind the scenes, there’s a growing sense of frustration among US officials.
These tanks are part of Australia’s efforts to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles has been vocal about his country’s commitment to backing Ukraine’s sovereignty and the global rules-based order.
However, American officials have expressed private concerns about the effectiveness of these retired Abrams tanks on the battlefield. One US official even went as far as saying that the Ukrainians might struggle to maintain them once they arrive.
**Why the Frustration?**
The main issue seems to be the age and condition of the tanks. They were purchased by Australia in 2007 but never deployed in combat. The US officials worry that these vehicles will be difficult to sustain, especially with the rise of drone warfare.
An Australian defense official also chimed in, saying that “the roof of the tank is the weakest point of the Abrams, and this is a drone war.” This highlights the challenges of using older tanks in modern conflict scenarios.
**What’s Next?**
Despite these concerns, work has begun to load the first batch of tanks onto a cargo ship. Australian officials remain tight-lipped about the exact location and expected arrival date of the tanks for “security reasons.”
When questioned about US reservations, Defense Minister Marles only said that his country is working closely with Ukraine and the US to make this delivery happen.
**A Shift in Stance?**
This move marks a notable shift in Australia’s stance on supporting Ukraine. The country has committed around A$1.5 billion (approximately $960 million) to aid Ukraine, which is part of a broader effort by Western nations to back Kyiv.
However, Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton remains skeptical about sending Australian troops, suggesting that European nations should lead any peacekeeping efforts.
**Read More**
For more on this story and Australia’s stance on Ukraine, head over to [euromaidanpress.com](http://euromaidanpress.com).
