In preparation for the ongoing conflict with Russia, the United States has sent 31 M1 Abrams training tanks to Grafenwoehr, Germany, for Ukrainian tank crews and maintainers to begin training on. The aim is to prepare them for their critical roles in operating the tanks effectively and defending the Ukrainian people. The training program is expected to start soon, with Ukrainian crews arriving in Germany in the upcoming weeks, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder.
Originally, the U.S. planned on procuring new M1A2 Abrams tanks to send to Ukraine, using funds from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. However, the Defense Department decided in March to refurbish M1A1 Abrams tanks already in U.S. inventory to shorten the timeline. The M1A1 variant will have “a very similar capability” to the M1A2, according to Ryder.
The U.S. is scheduled to deliver those 31 combat-ready tanks to Ukraine in the fall and is preparing crews on training versions during the refurbishment process in preparation for the delivery. The training will not only prepare crews for operating the tanks in battle but will also prepare maintenance personnel to keep them operational, as the M1 is a complex machine that requires a lot of maintenance to sustain and operate.
This training is part of a broader U.S.-led effort to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s invading forces. Currently, approximately 500 Ukrainian soldiers are conducting combined arms training at the Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas in Germany. Approximately 10,700 Ukrainian soldiers have completed training and returned to the front lines, including 6,100 who have completed small arms training, 4,000 who have completed specific platform training, and 600 who have completed staff training.
The U.S. has also continued to support Ukrainian forces by providing weapons packages crucial to defending their homeland. Last week, the U.S. announced its latest $1.2 billion package as part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s air defense and artillery needs. This package includes more 155 mm artillery rounds and additional air defense systems and equipment to integrate Western air-defense platforms.
The M1 Abrams training comes amid rising tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with Russian troops amassing along the border and frequent clashes in the Donbas region. The U.S. has expressed its support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and has called on Russia to de-escalate the situation and withdraw its troops from the border.