Australia gifts Ukraine with six M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzers and howitzer ammunition to fight off Russia
The United States and the Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia appealed to the Morrison government to provide heavy artillery weapons to the Ukrainian Armed Forces as Russia intensifies attacks in Donbas.
Australia will gift Ukraine with six 4100kg guns which have a range of 30km to assist the country in its response to “Russia’s brutal, unrelenting and illegal invasion”.
The six M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzers and howitzer ammunition will be sent to Europe following a request by the United States and the Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia to provide heavy artillery weapons and ammunition to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The appeal comes as Russia intensifies its attacks in the Donbas.
“This additional military assistance will further support Ukraine in its response to Russia’s brutal, unrelenting and illegal invasion,” a statement from Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Defence Minster Peter Dutton said on Wednesday.
“The $26.7 million in new support for Ukraine takes Australia’s total contribution to Defensive Military Assistance to Ukraine to over $225 million.”
Australia is also providing $65 million in humanitarian assistance, with a focus on protecting women, children, the elderly and food, shelter and emergency medical supplies.
At least 70,000 tonnes of thermal coal to power Ukraine’s resistance has been given by Australia.
"The Australian Government will continue to identify opportunities for further military assistance where it is able to provide a required capability to the Ukraine Armed Forces expeditiously," the statement said.
“The Australian Government reiterates our strongest support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and for the people of Ukraine.
“Australia stands with the people of Ukraine, and again calls on Russia to cease its unprovoked, unjust and illegal invasion of Ukraine.
“The Government will not disclose delivery arrangements at the direct request of Ukrainian officials and other partners.”
The M777 marked a “significant advance in Army’s capabilities”, according to Australian Army’s government website.
“The gun has a much higher level of digital connectivity allowing more rapid, safe and accurate application of effects across the battlespace,” the website reads.
https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/australia-gifts-ukraine-with-six-m777-155mm-lightweight-towed-howitzers-and-howitzer-ammunition-to-fight-off-russia/news-story/68b1a30f9bd4c6ff0d256b3f629252a1