Bangladesh’s Acquisition of Bayraktar TB2 UAVs Raises Alarm in India
**India has expressed concerns over Bangladesh’s recent acquisition of Bayraktar TB2 UAVs, particularly as these drones are being deployed for border surveillance.** According to a report from The Economic Times, the Bangladeshi Army has initiated surveillance operations with the UAVs in regions adjacent to the Indian border. Sources within the defense sector have confirmed that Indian agencies have detected these drones and are currently monitoring their activities closely.
In recent months, it has been reported that the TB2 UAVs have been conducting operational flights, primarily within Bangladeshi airspace. This heightened activity has prompted India to enhance its surveillance measures, deploying advanced radar systems to track these unmanned aerial vehicles. Defense analysts in India note that the capabilities of the TB2, which can fly for extended periods—sometimes exceeding 20 hours—pose a potential threat to regional stability.
Strengthening Ties with Pakistan Heightens Regional Tensions
Compounding the situation, Bangladesh has reportedly strengthened its intelligence ties with Pakistan, a country with ongoing tensions with India. Reports indicate that the Bangladeshi government has permitted visits by Pakistani officials to sensitive areas near the Indian border, including the strategically important Siliguri Corridor. Such developments have not gone unnoticed in India, sparking criticism and concern regarding the potential implications for national security.
In July 2022, an agreement was finalized between Bangladeshi authorities and the Turkish defense firm, Baykar, for the procurement of the TB2 UAVs. While the exact number of drones supplied remains undisclosed, announcements from sources such as the Defense DTB social media account have confirmed that the Bangladeshi Army is commencing operations with these UAVs. Alongside the Bayraktar TB2, Bangladesh is expanding its military capabilities with a variety of Turkish defense systems, increasing its reliance on foreign military technology.
Bangladesh’s Military Modernization Efforts
In addition to the Bayraktar TB2 UAVs, the Bangladesh Army has been integrating several other products from the Turkish defense industry into its fleet. This modernization effort includes advanced systems such as the KAPLAN missile and the OTOKAR COBRA armored vehicle, alongside the TRG-230 defense artillery. These acquisitions are indicative of Bangladesh’s ambitions to bolster its military readiness and capabilities in the face of regional challenges.
The growing military cooperation between Bangladesh and Turkey underscores a shift in the balance of power in South Asia. As Bangladesh enhances its defense arsenal, India remains vigilant, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and strategic preparedness. The situation reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, where military procurement is increasingly influenced by ties with external powers. With Bangladesh’s military modernization set against the backdrop of Indian security concerns, the region remains on heightened alert.
