Two weeks before an elected government is set to assume power in Bangladesh, separate delegations from Pakistan and China arrived in Dhaka on February 1 to advance and finalise Defence cooperation and acquisitions. The visits are being seen as significant in the context of Bangladesh’s ongoing military modernisation and regional Defence engagements.
The 13-member Pakistan Navy delegation is led by Commodore Nasir Mehmood. The Chinese delegation is headed by Ding Weimin, Asia Pacific General Manager of the state-controlled North Industries Group Corporation Limited (NORINCO).
According to Bangladesh Navy sources, the Pakistani team also includes South African Navy Commander Jabulani Donal Mashamba and Nigerian Navy Lieutenant Commander Ikenna Stephen Chima, who have been described as representatives of “friendly countries”. They are scheduled to participate in the 55th Pakistan Navy Staff Course.
NORINCO discussions on Defence procurement
During its stay in Dhaka, the NORINCO delegation is expected to hold discussions on technical specifications for spare parts and payment terms. The talks are aimed at finalising payments and draft agreements by February 3.
The Bangladesh Army relies heavily on NORINCO for modernising its armoured fleet under its Forces Goal 2030 programme. The Army has acquired advanced tanks including the VT-4A1 main battle tanks, VT5 light tanks and upgraded Type 59G and 69IIG vehicles. Ongoing Defence cooperation also includes the procurement of the SY-400 guided missile system and the Sky Dragon 100 air defence systems to strengthen firepower and air Defence capabilities.
Pakistan Navy officer appointed Commandant of key naval training wing
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Navy has appointed a Pakistan Navy Rear Admiral as Commandant of a key naval training institution. An appointment letter issued by Bangladesh Naval Headquarters on February 1 stated that Rear Admiral Jahangir Adil Samdany has been appointed as Commandant of BNS Sher-e-Bangla (Additional), under the Navy Training and Doctrine Command (NATDOC). He has been directed to assume charge by February 3, 2026.
The NATDOC is a newly established vertical within the Bangladesh Navy responsible for designing, managing and evaluating training curricula for naval personnel. The command focuses on maintaining operational readiness, quality control of training, development of training materials and documentation related to naval operations, including anti-piracy, maritime surveillance and disaster relief.