The Australian Government, with the support of local defence industry, is providing a further $20 million package of military assistance to Ukraine.
De-mining equipment, portable x-ray machines, a 3D metal printer, and counter drone systems are some of the Australian developed equipment that will contribute to Ukraine’s defence.
The Australian developed equipment is made by four innovative Australian defence industry companies: DroneShield, Micro-X, Minelab and SPEE3D.
This new support takes Australia’s overall assistance to Ukraine to approximately $910 million, including the provision of Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles, heavy artillery, critical ammunition and contributions to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund.
In addition, a Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail aircraft has deployed to Germany in support of multinational efforts helping protect a vital gateway of international humanitarian and military assistance to Ukraine.
The deployment of this aircraft delivers on the Government’s commitment made ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit to the NATO Summit in Vilnius.
The aircraft has arrived at Ramstein Air Base to begin a six-month deployment under Operation Kudu. Up to 100 Australian Defence Force personnel have deployed with the aircraft.
The aircraft will not be involved in the conflict in Ukraine, and Australian Defence Force personnel and assets will not enter Ukraine during the deployment. The E-7A Wedgetail will not operate inside Russian, Belarusian or Ukrainian airspace.
The Albanese Government continues to work with the Government of Ukraine and our international partners to provide assistance and to call on Russia to immediately withdraw from Ukraine.
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:
“Australia remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine to defend itself against Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion.
“This contribution will provide Ukraine with some of the best capabilities in the world, while investing in Australia’s sovereign defence industry and technology sector.
“I’m proud to confirm the E-7A Wedgetail has arrived in Germany to commence its important mission. Australia is honoured to provide this aircraft to help protect the vital lifeline of humanitarian aid and military assistance entering Ukraine.”
Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles:
“Australia continues to stand with Ukraine as we work with our partners to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“We are proud to see Australian companies helping international efforts to support Ukraine to end Russia’s illegal invasion, on its own terms.
“With the deployment of the E-7A, the Australian Defence Force is making an important contribution to multi-national efforts protecting the gateway of humanitarian and military assistance into Ukraine.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:
“Our local defence industry has so many groundbreaking companies providing unique solutions like this, and I want to thank them for their assistance.
“3D metal printers can be used to print spare parts, while de-mining and portable X-Ray equipment can provide life-saving assistance for Ukrainian personnel on the battlefield.”