This ABC discusses Australia's decision to send retired M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine despite some private frustrations expressed by US officials regarding their potential usefulness and sustainment challenges in the current conflict. Work has reportedly begun to load the first of the 49 tanks onto a cargo ship, though the Australian government will not disclose specific arrival details for security reasons. Ukraine's president has thanked Australia for the donation, while some concerns about the tanks' vulnerability to drones have been raised by Australian Defence officials. The article also mentions past criticisms of Australia's refusal to donate retired helicopters to Ukraine.