Ankara: Australia on Saturday announced the delivery of the majority of the 49 pledged M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, reinforcing its support in the ongoing conflict with Russia. "The Albanese Government continues its steadfast support for Ukraine, with the transfer of the first tranche of Australian-gifted M1A1 Abrams tanks to the Armed Forces of Ukraine," Defense Minister Richard Marles stated.

According to Anadolu Agency, the remaining tanks are scheduled for delivery in the coming months. This deployment of American-made tanks is part of the 1.5 billion Australian dollars ($980.4 million) in aid allocated to assist Ukraine.

Australia's support extends beyond military equipment. Canberra is committed to continuing the training of Ukrainian soldiers and plans to deploy a Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail aircraft to Europe in August. This aircraft will help protect crucial international routes used for delivering assistance to Ukraine.

Marles emphasized Australia's unwavering commitment to Ukraine, stating, "Australia remains steadfast in our support for Ukraine and seeing a just and lasting peace." Since the onset of Russia's 'special military operation' in February 2022, Australia has been actively supplying aid and defense equipment to Ukraine and has imposed sanctions on Moscow.