Following western countries, Australia contributed war equipment to Ukraine to fight Russia. The neighboring country sent 20 Bushmaster armored fighting vehicles to Ukraine.
As quoted by us from 7News, Wednesday (13/4/2022), the first batch of Bushmasters, whose unit value starts at USD 2.4 million, will be sent from Brisbane to Europe using RAAF C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
The combat vehicle was specifically requested by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky. The Bushmaster was also painted with the Ukrainian flag. "Once again Ukraine asked for our help and we complied," said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
"Our Australian-designed and manufactured Bushmasters are recognized worldwide for their use in war zones and will help bolster Ukraine's defenses against illegal Russian violence," he said.
This combat vehicle, whose full name is Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle, is designed to transport 10 soldiers to the battlefield and their equipment. Driven by 4 wheels, it is designed to operate in all fields.
This vehicle is explosion-proof and has been used by Australia, among others, on the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan. Produced since 1997 in various variants, the manufacturer is Thales Australia.
For the convenience of the passengers, this vehicle is equipped with air conditioning. It has a weapon system to protect it on the front and rear, including a machine gun.
The Bushmaster is designed to withstand mine explosions and is also bulletproof. In addition to carrying soldiers, this vehicle can also be used to carry heavy weapons. Another plus, this vehicle is easy to operate.
"It would be very easy to train Ukrainian soldiers to use and maintain these combat vehicles," said Mick Ryan, a veteran of the Australian army.