Australia to send 49 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, - ABC News.

Ukraine will receive dozens of Abrams tanks from Australia, which is providing a new package of military assistance. The total value of this package is 245 million dollars. This was announced by Australia's Minister for Defense Industry Pat Conroy.

Specifically, Ukraine will receive 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks, which are already being phased out by the Australian army. The decision to provide these tanks to Kyiv was made after more than a year of Ukraine's interest in such assistance.

"We stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine in its fight against Russia's illegal invasion," Conroy said during a visit to London. He added that these tanks "will provide greater firepower and mobility to the Armed Forces of Ukraine".

Ukraine's Ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko reacted to the decision, calling it a "significant contribution" that will save Ukrainian lives. He also noted that Ukrainian military already have experience operating such tanks, which were previously received from the USA.

The transfer of tanks to Ukraine will require approval from the USA, considering the rules of international arms trade. In addition, some tanks will need repairs before shipment.

Overall support from Australia

Currently, the total value of Australia's military assistance to Ukraine amounts to over 1.3 billion dollars during the war period. Along with this, total government support exceeds 1.5 billion dollars.