In a development with significant regional implications, Bangladesh is expanding its defence horizons as it seeks to modernise its air defence capabilities, moving beyond traditional partners like China and exploring options from the United Kingdom. Sources in Bangladesh’s military intelligence said that a high-level military delegation arrived UK on Monday to participate in a major international defence summit.

Leading the delegation is Major General Mohammad Kamrul Hassan, Area Commander of Rangpur and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 66 Infantry Division. He is accompanied by six senior officers from the Bangladesh Army and Air Force. The team is attending the 19th Full Spectrum Air Defence Summit in London, taking place from June 23 to 26. The summit aims to promote interoperability and explore advanced solutions for integrated air and missile defence.

The visit signals Bangladesh’s intent to adopt a more independent and technologically advanced military posture. This comes amid an increasingly volatile regional security environment, including ongoing unrest in Myanmar’s Rakhine State—a scenario that could potentially draw Bangladesh into future cross-border security operations.

Implications for India: A watchful eye on Dhaka’s defence pivot

From India’s vantage point, Bangladesh’s pivot towards Western military technology—particularly in air defence—merits close observation. While India and Bangladesh share generally cordial relations, the latter’s diversification away from traditional suppliers like China and Russia could reshape South Asia’s strategic and procurement dynamics.

Dhaka’s shift also reflects lessons drawn from global conflicts—particularly the ongoing wars in Ukraine and West Asia—where effective air defence systems have proven essential. The rising threat from unmanned aerial systems (UAS), small UAS (s-UAS), and loitering munitions underscores the need for layered, integrated air defence networks. Bangladesh appears determined to adapt accordingly.

Bangladesh expands radar surveillance capabilities

Emphasising its focus on aerial security, the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) commissioned its second GM 403-M long-range air surveillance radar in Bogura on June 18. This follows the earlier deployment of the first such radar with the 71st Squadron in Dhaka’s Mirpur two months ago.

Developed by ThalesRaytheonSystems (TRS), the GM 403-M is a fully digital 3D radar system capable of detecting a wide array of targets—from low-flying tactical aircraft to UAVs. It offers precise range accuracy of 50 metres and is designed for remote operation and seamless integration into broader air defence networks.
Bangladesh’s latest defence moves suggest a calculated effort to diversify its partnerships, modernise its capabilities and reinforce its military doctrine. While not inherently threatening to India, these developments will factor into New Delhi’s evolving military and diplomatic strategy in South Asia, especially in an era marked by rapid technological shifts and intensifying geopolitical rivalries.