U.S. Speeds Up Abrams Tank Delivery To Ukraine War Zone

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials say the Pentagon is speeding up its delivery of Abrams tanks to Ukraine, opting to send a refurbished older model that can be ready faster.

The aim is to get the 70-ton battle powerhouses to the Russia-Ukraine war zone in eight to 10 months.

The original plan was to send 31 newer M1A2 Abrams, which could’ve taken a year or two to build and ship.

But officials said Tuesday the decision was made to send the older M1A1 version, which can be taken from Army stocks and will be easier for Ukrainian forces to learn to use and maintain.

Pentagon officials are expected to make a formal announcement Tuesday.