Bangladesh Plans Purchase of Chinese J-10CE Fighter Jets

Bangladesh is seeking to purchase 20 Chinese J-10CE multi-role fighter jets to modernize its air force ^[1].

The procurement represents a significant shift in the region's aerial balance. By upgrading its fleet, Bangladesh aims to strengthen its air-defense capabilities and ensure its military equipment remains competitive against neighboring forces.

Zahed Ur Rahman, an adviser to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, said the government is pursuing the acquisition to upgrade defense equipment ^[2]. The selection of the J-10CE is partly attributed to the aircraft's performance capabilities when compared to the Rafale jets operated by India ^[3].

Financial records indicate the estimated cost of the purchase is $2.2 billion, which is approximately Tk27,060 crore ^[1]. This investment would mark one of the largest defense expenditures for the nation in recent years.

While the procurement process is ongoing, a draft agreement for the purchase was prepared in October 2023 ^[1]. The move follows a broader strategy to diversify military hardware and reduce reliance on a single supplier for critical defense infrastructure.

The J-10CE is a multi-role fighter capable of performing both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Integrating these jets into the Bangladesh Air Force is intended to provide a versatile response to evolving security threats, a priority for the current administration.

Government officials said the modernization is necessary to maintain sovereignty and territorial integrity. The procurement process involves coordination between Dhaka and Beijing to finalize the delivery timelines, and training protocols for pilots and ground crew.