Australian Bushmaster troop carriers requested by Ukraine’s Zelensky

The Australian-designed and built Bushmaster troop carrier has been requested by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for the country’s ongoing war effort.

Speaking to Federal Parliament this afternoon via video link, the embattled leader claimed increased military aid was required to hold out Russian advances.

"You have very good armoured personnel vehicles – Bushmasters – that could help Ukraine substantially,” Mr Zelensky said. “If you have an opportunity to share this with us we would be very grateful."

Built in Bendigo since 1999, the Bushmaster is designed to carry up to 10 troops safely through war zones.

A 7.2-litre six-cylinder diesel engine sends 224kW/1166Nm to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, permitting a claimed top speed of 100km/h.

Full tilt would likely be faster, if it wasn’t for the extensive ballistic armouring which blows the total mass out to nearly 16,000kg on the heaviest variants.

However, it’s not just thick plating which makes the vehicle safer than alternatives – an innovative ‘V’ shaped floor is able to dissipate blasts far more effectively than a traditional flat floor.

Run-flat tyres are fitted at all four corners, while fuel and hydraulic tanks are positioned outside the body to lower the fire risk for occupants.

Mounting points for 5.56mm and 7.62mm machine guns are located on the roof at the front and rear.

The Australian Federal Government is yet to confirm if it will send the vehicles to Ukraine, however has committed $25 million in aid for yet-to-be-disclosed equipment.

With an estimated per-unit build cost of $500,000, as many as 50 Bushmasters could be theoretically contributed to the cause.

War in Europe has had far-reaching consequences on the automotive industry and fuel market. You can read Drive's in depth coverage by clicking here.