Bangladesh is preparing to buy J-10CE fighter jets from China to modernise its air force. The proposed defence deal, worth about $2.2 billion, or approximately Rs 22,000 crore, is understood to involve the purchase of 20 aircraft. However, the final number of aircraft, price and delivery timeline have not yet received official approval.
According to Zahed Ur Rahman, information and broadcasting adviser to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the relevant committee has prepared a draft agreement after talks for the purchase of J-10CE jets and other military equipment. It has been sent for approval to the concerned departments, including the Finance Ministry and the Armed Forces Division. If budget is available, the procurement process may move ahead in the current financial year; otherwise, it will be included in the next financial year.
The deal is also said to include costs for training, technical support, spare parts and logistics facilities along with the aircraft. Pakistan is already using J-10CE aircraft. Some media reports have claimed that Pakistan could help train Bangladeshi pilots and technical personnel. However, this arrangement has not been officially confirmed.
The modernisation of Bangladesh’s air force near India’s eastern border is being seen as significant from the perspective of regional security. Changes in military capabilities around the India-Bangladesh border in particular are being monitored. At present, there is no independent confirmation of claims about a training centre being set up 40 kilometres away or Pakistani pilots providing training there.
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