Australia has announced it will send 14 rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) to Ukraine to amplify the country’s maritime and coastal capabilities in response to Russia’s continued aggression.
The 14 million Australian dollar ($9.2 million) military package serves as Canberra’s solution to further support the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ operations against Moscow in one of the “important operational domains.”
The Australian Department of Defence noted that Kyiv’s future sea boats will act as “fast and highly maneuverable” assets for the military once delivered.
Canberra said its pledge is part of the government’s larger investment revealed during Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles’ visit to Ukraine earlier this year.
In May 2024, the country confirmed a 100 million Australian dollar ($65.8 million) package to Ukraine which involved the 8.3-meter (27-foot) class 830R craft developed by Tasmania-based Sentinel Boats.
“Australia remains firmly committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression,” Marles commented on the latest aid for Kyiv. “This is in Australia’s interests, and is the right thing to do.”
“Ukraine has demonstrated its ability to thwart Russia’s continued attacks from the Black Sea. We are proud to contribute to these vital maritime defences with this new package.”
Australia has thus far donated more than 1.5 billion Australian dollars ($987.4 million) to Ukraine since Russia began its invasion in 2022.
Recent Tactical Boat Deliveries for Ukraine
Ukraine received three Swedish-made tactical boats in July as part of a local industry partner’s ongoing support for the armed forces.
A month earlier, Canada said that its RHIBs promised to Ukraine in January would begin arriving in the Eastern European nation.
