A fleet of retired tanks that the Albanese government committed to sending to Ukraine last year remains stuck in Australia, with defense officials partly blaming resistance from the United States for the holdup. Despite more than six months passing since the announcement of the transfer, the aging M1A1 Abrams tanks are still awaiting final approval before being shipped overseas.
The initial plan was part of a $245 million Australian military aid package announced to support Ukraine’s defense efforts amid ongoing conflict. However, recent developments reveal significant complications. Reports indicate that the transfer has been delayed due to the US placing a temporary freeze on military assistance to Ukraine under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Sources familiar with the situation indicate that further uncertainty surrounds the process because the formal permission required from the US government has yet to be granted. Without this clearance, Australia cannot proceed with the transfer of the tanks.
One defense official, requesting anonymity, expressed skepticism about whether Ukraine still wants the tanks, citing technical vulnerabilities. “We are starting to doubt if the Ukrainians actually want these vehicles the tank roof is the weakest point of the Abrams and this is a drone war,” the official said, highlighting concerns over the tanks’ suitability given current battlefield dynamics.
The ongoing delays underscore the complex international coordination involved in military aid transfers, especially when key allies have differing policies on arms assistance. As the situation unfolds, the tanks remain in Australia, awaiting a green light that has yet to be issued.
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