According to Ukrainian media, the vehicles are most likely ex-Australian M1A1 AIM SA, which Canberra had pledged to transfer after their withdrawal from the Australian Army, where they are being replaced by newer M1A2 SEPv3 tanks. Australia has committed to supplying 49 Abrams this year, enough to equip one tank battalion and replace losses in another.
The first Ukrainian unit to receive Abrams tanks was the 47th Mechanised Brigade “Magura”, which operated 31 modified M1A1 SA vehicles previously owned by the US Army. Reports indicate that this brigade may have lost more than 50 per cent of its tanks in combat, and the ex-Australian vehicles could help replenish its strength.
Ukrainian media noted that the Australian Abrams underwent certain modifications before delivery, including the replacement of the original special armour package, which contained depleted uranium inserts, with an alternative solution. Adjustments were also made to communications systems.
Engines of the Australian Abrams had already been reconfigured during earlier modernisation, enabling them to use diesel fuel instead of the JP-8 jet fuel standard in the US Army. This adaptation was introduced when Australia purchased the vehicles second-hand and had them upgraded to meet its operational needs.
Formed earlier this year, the 425th Assault Regiment is equipped with a range of Western-supplied hardware, including Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks, M2A2 ODS Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, and M113 armoured personnel carriers.
