Sunday, 5th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 31st January 2026, 9:52 AM
Over the past eighteen months, Bangladesh’s caretaker government has juggled multiple high-profile responsibilities, including state institutional reforms, pursuing justice for the July 2016 killings, and preparing for upcoming elections. Yet, its most tangible focus has arguably been on defence procurement, reflecting a strategic priority to enhance the nation’s military capabilities through international agreements, acquisitions, and technology transfers.
Since assuming office, the caretaker government has engaged with Pakistan, China, Turkey, South Korea, the United States, and several European nations to acquire or negotiate platforms ranging from fighter jets and attack helicopters to submarines and warships. Most recently, Bangladesh signed an agreement with China’s CETC International for drone production and technology transfer, a project valued at approximately BDT 608 crore.
Key Defence Acquisitions and Potential Expenditure
| Procurement Item | Source Country / Organisation | Quantity / Plan | Estimated Cost (BDT crore) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JF-17 Block III Fighter Jets | Pakistan | 12 | 8,856 | 4.5-generation multirole jets with advanced radar and missile systems |
| J-10C Fighter Jets | China | 20 | 27,060 | MRCA jets for multi-role operations; expands 10 existing squadrons |
| Eurofighter Typhoon | Europe (UK, Germany, Italy, Spain) | 10 | – | Supersonic fighter capable of operations above 55,000 ft |
| T-129 Attack Helicopters | Turkey | 6 | – | Equipped with 20mm cannon, missiles; day/night operational capability |
| BNS Khalid Warship Upgrade | Turkey / Designated Agency | 1 | 650 | Enhanced naval capability and continuous surveillance |
| Submarine | South Korea | Under Negotiation | – | Maritime security and strategic collaboration |
| Black Hawk Helicopters | USA | 4 | – | Troop transport, medical evacuation, special operations |
| Fixed-Wing Fighter Aircraft | USA | 2 | – | Enhancing air force operational capacity |
These acquisitions form part of Bangladesh Forces’ “Goal 2030” initiative, aiming to strengthen the army, navy, and air force. Defence analysts note that the multi-pronged procurement strategy addresses regional security, technology transfer, and long-term maintenance considerations. Critics, however, caution that the government should prioritise institutional reforms, judicial accountability, and electoral preparations.
The caretaker government’s defence acquisitions also intersect with international diplomatic and economic dynamics. Negotiations with Pakistan and China for fighter jets, Europe for advanced Typhoon aircraft, and technology transfer agreements with China are all incremental steps in Bangladesh’s phased military modernisation programme. Observers suggest that, while costly, these strategic initiatives are central to the country’s long-term defence posture in a complex regional security environment.
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