Ukrainian Foreign Minister asks Australia for decommissioned equipment for military: What Ukraine might receive

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister noted that Ukraine had previously received assistance from Australia. However, he stated that by providing Kyiv with decommissioned military equipment, partners conserve their own resources while Ukraine enhances its defense capabilities.

"During our call with Senator Wong I thanked Australia for its support and updated my counterpart on our priority defense needs. Australian Bushmasters have proven to be effective on the battlefield, and we intend to expand our cooperation on these and other armored vehicles," the Minister wrote.

He also noted that, in addition to military aid, Ukraine is interested in decommissioned equipment, including a large quantity of retired armored vehicles and other items.

About the Bushmaster

The Bushmaster is an Australian armored vehicle developed by Thales Australia for troop transport in combat conditions. It provides high protection against mines and ballistic threats, can carry up to 10 people, and is equipped for operations in challenging terrain.

The Bushmaster has good off-road capabilities, is fitted with various types of weaponry, and is used for transport, reconnaissance, and combat missions. However, it is the least protected transport vehicle in the Australian Army, though its armor is designed to withstand 5.56mm and 7.62mm bullets, grenade shrapnel, ammunition, and the explosion of a mine with 6 kg of explosive material.

Bushmasters for Ukraine

As of April 2022, Australia had supplied Ukraine with 20 Bushmaster armored vehicles worth a total of $38 million. In October 2022, it was reported that Australia sent an additional 30 Bushmaster armored vehicles to Ukraine.