Highlights
- Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) joins hands with China for a drone manufacturing plant.
- The plant is expected to be completed by December 2025.
- China also proposes an aircraft overhauling facility in Bangladesh.
- The project aims to boost local defence production and create skilled jobs.
Joint Drone Production with China
The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) is working together with China to establish a drone (UAV) manufacturing plant in Bangladesh. This initiative is being implemented under a technology transfer agreement, which will allow Bangladesh to gain access to advanced drone-making knowledge and capabilities.
Officials have confirmed that the construction of the plant is expected to be completed by December this year, marking a major milestone for the country’s defence industry.
“নিজেই তৈরি করুন নিজের অনলাইন স্টোর — কোনো কোডিং জ্ঞান ছাড়াই!”
Aircraft Overhauling Facility Proposed
In addition to the Drone Factory project, China has proposed building an aircraft overhauling facility in Bangladesh. This would enable the country to repair and upgrade aircraft locally, reducing dependency on foreign maintenance services.
An official at the meeting explained that with some upgrades to existing Air Force facilities, “it would be possible to overhaul engines for used aircraft.”
The official added,
“As the same aircraft models and engines are popular in our neighbouring countries, securing foreign investment in this area will be comparatively easier.”
Key Discussion at Bida Meeting
Details of these Drone Factory projects were shared during a coordination meeting held in September, chaired by Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).
Read more: Donald Trump says Christian’s face ‘Existential Threat’ in Nigeria, opens door for sanctions
The meeting focused on creating a specialised Defence Economic Zone to attract local, private, and foreign investments for producing military and paramilitary goods within Bangladesh.
Progress in Local Aviation Development
During the meeting, a BAF official reported that the Bangladesh Aeronautical Research and Development Centre (BARDC), established two years ago, has already designed and flown four aircraft. This achievement shows Bangladesh’s growing ability to develop its own aviation technology.
The official stated that the initiative’s main goal is to create local technology for training aircraft and later expand into commercial production of sport aircraft.
Boosting Aviation Skills and Investment
BAF officials emphasized that there is a high global demand for aviation-related equipment. They recommended collaboration with universities to develop skilled professionals who can contribute to the aviation and defence sectors.
According to officials, building a strong local workforce will not only strengthen Bangladesh’s aviation capabilities but also attract more foreign investment into the country’s growing defence industry.
Source: TBS
