Dhaka moves closer to China jet deal
Bangladesh has taken a step towards opening formal negotiations with China over the possible purchase of J-10CE multi-role fighter aircraft and attack helicopters, underscoring Dhaka’s continuing efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities while deepening military cooperation with Beijing.
A government committee has prepared a draft agreement that will serve as the basis for negotiations, Prime Minister’s Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman said on Tuesday (25 August).
He disclosed the development at a press conference in Dhaka on the progress of various government activities.
Referring to recent armed conflicts and their implications for modern warfare, Zahed said discussions had taken place over the possibility of Bangladesh acquiring Chinese-made J-10 fighter aircraft.
“We have likely noticed discussions suggesting that Bangladesh may purchase J-10 fighters,” he said.
He referred to the recent India-Pakistan conflict and said, “When there was a war between India and Pakistan, India’s Rafale was shot down; and that was done by the Chinese J-10 – this information is now established.”
The remarks come as Bangladesh weighs options to modernise the Bangladesh Air Force and strengthen its air-defence capabilities through the acquisition of advanced fighter aircraft and other military hardware.
In October last year, the then interim government was preparing to purchase 20 Chinese-made J-10CE multi-role fighter jets at an estimated cost of $2.2 billion, equivalent to around Tk 27,060 crore.
The proposed procurement was part of efforts to modernise the Bangladesh Air Force and enhance the country’s air-defence capability.
The estimated cost included training, maintenance and other associated expenses.
The proposed deal was expected to be implemented during the 2025-26 and 2026-27 financial years, with payments spread over 10 fiscal years until 2035-36.
The latest move to prepare a draft agreement indicates that the proposed acquisition has entered a more structured stage, although negotiations and other formal procedures will determine the final terms of any agreement.
The possible procurement also carries wider diplomatic significance as Bangladesh seeks to expand defence cooperation with international partners while maintaining its broader foreign-policy priorities.
