Australia will provide Ukraine with 14 boats to enhance its maritime defense capabilities.

Australia will provide Ukraine with 14 high-speed maneuverable RHIB boats with a rigid hull as part of its defense assistance.

According to Ukrinform, this was reported by the Australian Department of Defence.

"Australia is gifting Ukraine 14 rigid-hulled boats, highlighting the government's ongoing commitment to support Ukraine in its defense against Russia's illegal invasion," the statement reads.

It is noted that these naval vessels from the Australian Defence Force will provide Ukraine with rapid and highly maneuverable maritime capabilities.

"The latest round of military support, valued at 14 million dollars, will strengthen Ukraine's maritime and coastal defense, which is a crucial operational area for the Armed Forces of Ukraine," stated the Australian Department of Defence.

The department added that this announcement regarding the delivery of boats builds on previous contributions to the development of Ukraine's maritime capabilities, including rigid-hulled inflatable boats, as announced by the country's Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles earlier this year.

The Australian ministry emphasizes that this assistance is part of the government's ongoing commitment to "support Ukraine in its defense against Russia's illegal invasion."

"Since the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion, Australia has provided over 1.3 billion dollars in military support and more than 1.5 billion dollars in total support to the Ukrainian government," the ministry reported.

According to Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles, supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression is in Australia's interest, and "it is the right thing to do."

"Ukraine has demonstrated its capability to thwart ongoing Russian attacks from the Black Sea. We are proud to contribute to this vital maritime defense through this new package," said the Australian politician.

"Australia remains firmly committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. This is in Australia's interest, and it is the right thing to do," the statement concludes.

As reported, Australia has joined the International Coalition of countries for the return of Ukrainian children.

Photo: defence.gov.au