Australia donates additional 30 Bushmaster armored personnel carriers to Ukraine.

On July 12, 2023, Australia announced the donation of 30 additional Bushmaster armored personnel carriers to the front lines of eastern Ukraine. This donation aims to strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities. This commitment brings Australia's total donation to 120 Bushmaster vehicles.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Bushmasters armored personnel carrier (Picture source : Thales )

The Bushmasters, built in Bendigo, have proven their effectiveness in Ukraine by aiding troop movements, serving as ambulances, and functioning as command, patrol, and support vehicles. Ukrainian soldiers have praised the superior armor of the Bushmasters, which has saved lives during heavy fire and protected them from enemy attacks.

Last year, Australia pledged to provide 90 Bushmasters to Ukraine following a request from President Zelenskyy during his address to the Australian parliament. This latest donation, valued at approximately $100 million, further reinforces Australia's commitment, bringing the total number of donated troop carriers to 120. Australia's military aid to Ukraine now exceeds $710 million.

Since its introduction in 1997, the Bushmaster has been used in a variety of conflicts, including the war in Afghanistan, the Iraq War, the conflict in northern Mali, UNDOF in the Golan Heights, the Iraqi Civil War, the Syrian Civil War, and most recently, during the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Equipped with a monocoque hull providing high protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and mines, the Bushmaster exceeds STANAG 4569 ballistic standards at level 1 and can be optionally equipped to reach level 3. It offers protection against enemy fire through its ballistic armor and robust design.

The vehicle can accommodate up to nine passengers, in addition to the driver, and offers different configurations such as troop transport, command, ambulance, IED countermeasures, and utility versions. Its turbocharged 7.2-liter Caterpillar 3126E diesel engine provides 224 kW (300 hp) at 2,200 rpm, offering a power-to-weight ratio of 26.4 hp/tonne. It is equipped with a ZF Ecomat 6HP502 G2 transmission with six forward speeds and one reverse. With a ground clearance of 1,340 mm at the front and 1,950 mm at the rear, an approach angle of 40 degrees, a departure angle of 38 degrees, and a fording capability of 1,200 mm, it can tackle challenging terrains and vertical obstacles of 460 mm.

With an operational range of 800 km and a maximum speed of 100 km/h, the Bushmaster provides essential mobility on the battlefield, enabling troops to move quickly and efficiently. To date, over 1,195 vehicles have been produced and deployed.

The donation of additional Bushmaster vehicles demonstrates Australia's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and its stance against Russian aggression. The vehicles' reputation for durability and protection has earned the respect and gratitude of Ukrainian soldiers.