US Military Aircraft Arrives in Chattogram with 92 Personnel

The recent arrival of a United States military aircraft at the Zahurul Haque Air Base, adjacent to Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram, and the presence of US military personnel at a city hotel have sparked widespread discussion on social media. However, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has categorically dismissed such speculations.

According to ISPR, the US personnel are in Chattogram as part of a seven-day joint exercise conducted by the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) in collaboration with the United States Pacific Air Forces.

The joint exercise, named “Operation Pacific Angel 25-3”, was inaugurated last Sunday at Zahurul Haque Air Base. The ceremony was presided over by Air Vice Marshal Haider Abdullah, Commander of Zahurul Haque Air Base. Alongside Bangladeshi officers, members of the US Pacific Air Forces were also present at the inauguration.

According to reports by BASS, the exercise involves the following aircraft:

The exercise includes 150 personnel from the Bangladesh Air Force, 92 US personnel, as well as additional members from the Bangladesh Army and Navy.

The exercise encompasses a wide range of operational and humanitarian activities:

Following the circulation of photos and videos of the US C-130J transport aircraft at Zahurul Haque Air Base on Facebook, rumours began spreading on Wednesday. Some reports claimed that US personnel had been staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Chattogram.

In response, ISPR announced that a press briefing would be held on Thursday to provide comprehensive information regarding the exercise and dispel misinformation.

ISPR highlighted that the primary goals of the exercise are:

• Enhancing professional skills of both air forces.
• Promoting mutual experience sharing and best practices.
• Strengthening interoperability and bilateral cooperation.
• Providing services to local communities through the collaboration of air force, medical, engineering, and logistics specialists, thereby reinforcing trust and ties between the two nations.

During the exercise, participants are engaging in realistic drills and emergency response scenarios. These activities are designed to enable personnel to coordinate rescue operations efficiently in real-life situations. As a result, the exercise aims to:

• Improve coordination between the two air forces.
• Strengthen strategic planning and operational efficiency.
• Enhance humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities.

On Tuesday, Tracy Ann Jacobson, the US Chargé d’Affaires in Bangladesh, visited Zahurul Haque Air Base to inspect the exercise. She later exchanged greetings and interactions with members of both air forces.

The seven-day exercise is scheduled to conclude on Thursday.

Image Source: ISPR