As an independent nation Bangladesh has the right to do whatever it pleases with it’s defence force. If anyone says otherwise then how would he take it if I say “Your country shouldn’t purchase Su-30 or Rafale’s because you dont need it” or something along the line.

A modern and strong defence force is one of the most important thing for an independent nation.

These F-7’s are a buffer until the government get’s hold of JF-17 or something along those lines.

The govt is also looking at purchasing advance long range SAM’s as air defence from the gound is important and we lack the advance missiles.

We have got a sophisticated C4I system and gradually the plan is to build an air defence network throughout the country to protect the important installations.

Also we purchase Mi-17’s every year as we use them in UN missions. The helicopters have a seperate budget (3-4 helicopters are purchased every year) so it’s enough for now.

Govt procuring 16 Chinese F-7 jet fighters with $ 93.60m
Govinda Shil

To accomplish Forces Goal 2020, the Bangladesh government is procuring 16 Chinese F-7 jet fighters at a cost of US$ 93.60 million, said a reliable source.

The aircraft will land in Dhaka’s military airfield flying from China via Myanmar, sometime next month. The fighter planes will be used for air defense purposes. They are equipped with airborne interception radars.
The features of the fighters could be compared with Russian made MIG 29, which is multi functional military aircraft and expensive.

Each of these fighters will cost US$ 5.85 million, according to an AFX (news agency) report.

Negotiation with the Chinese government had started nearly three years ago and continued until last year when a deal was finalised.

Bangladesh government will pay the amount, of which Tk 5.0 billion will come from Bangladesh Air Force budget. In a unique instance, Bangladesh Army and Bangladesh Navy are also contributing to this purchase, the source added.

Parliamentary standing committee on defense is currently reviewing the Forces Goal 2020, fist time designed in the history of the country’s national security.

The Forces Goal assesses the strength of the country’s enemy forces and advises appropriate measures. Bangladesh will continue to add strength to its air force by procuring more fighters. These F-7 jets are mostly defensive in nature and are able to carry four missiles each.

Bangladesh Air Force is comprised of six squadrons, of which four are defensive and two offensive, said the source. These squadrons require reshuffling, as they are equipped with old fighters such as MIG 21 and old-type F-7 and scanty arsenals, the source pointed out.

Some 20 pilots and 30 technicians are being trained in China to operate these aircraft. Out of these 16 jets, four would be used for training purposes, and, therefore, are equipped with two cockpits.

The source claimed that China was giving huge discounts for this purchase as a goodwill gesture. According to him, the actual market price of such a jet will not be less than US$ 10 million.

The fighters are featured with radar warning receivers, heat sensors and multi target acquisitions.
“We need more aircraft that can be used for air strikes,” the source said adding the country also needs more surface-to-air missiles, considering its geopolitical location.
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