The Australian Government will provide further support to the Government of Ukraine by gifting 20 Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles, including two ambulance variants, to aid the Government of Ukraine’s response to Russia’s unrelenting and illegal aggression. The Bushmaster is well suited to protect the Ukrainian Armed Forces soldiers and Ukrainian civilians against mines and improvised explosive devices, shrapnel from artillery, and small arms fire. Australia’s response follows a direct request from President Zelenskyy during his address to the Australian Parliament on 31 March 2022.
The Thales Bushmaster was built in Australia to provide protected mobility transport, safely moving soldiers to a battle area before dismounting for close combat. The 20 vehicles are painted olive green to suit the operating environment. Additionally, a Ukrainian flag is painted on either side with the words ‘United with Ukraine’ stenciled in English and Ukrainian to acknowledge our commitment and support to the government and people of Ukraine. The ambulances will have the traditional Red Cross emblem. The Bushmaster will be fitted with radios, a global positioning system, and additional bolt-on armor to increase its protection.
The Australian Government will continue to work with the Government of Ukraine to develop a suitable logistics support package, while training will be conducted through Army video training with Ukrainian subtitles. Australia has committed a total of around $116 million of defensive military assistance to Ukraine, the addition of these vehicles takes our commitment to around $165 million. In addition, Australia is delivering 70,000 tonnes of coal to power Ukraine’s resistance, on top of $65 million in humanitarian assistance for the people of Ukraine, with a focus on protecting women, children, and the elderly, including food, shelter, and emergency medical supplies.
Further specific details about delivery arrangements will not be disclosed following a request from Ukrainian officials and our other partners. Australia stands with the Government and people of Ukraine and calls on Russia to cease its unprovoked, unjust and illegal invasion of Ukraine. The Australian Government will continue to take steps, together with partners, to ensure Russia pays the highest possible price for its actions. The Australian Government will continue to identify opportunities for further defensive military assistance where it can provide a required capability to the Ukraine Armed Forces expeditiously.
