Bangladesh, China Sign Deal to Produce UAVs Locally

Bangladesh has taken a significant step towards strengthening its indigenous defence manufacturing base by signing an agreement with china/">China to establish a facility for the production and assembly of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The move underscores Dhaka’s focus on technology transfer, capacity-building, and long-term self-reliance in aerial surveillance and defence platforms.

Defence Agreement Between Bangladesh Air Force and CETC

The agreement was signed between the Bangladesh Air Force and China Electronics Technology Group Corporation International at the BAF headquarters in Dhaka Cantonment. The signing ceremony was attended by senior military and diplomatic officials, including the Air Chief Marshal of Bangladesh and the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh. The deal marks a new phase in bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries.

Technology Transfer and Indigenous Manufacturing Goals

Under the pact, CETC will transfer critical technologies and provide technical assistance to enable Bangladesh to independently manufacture UAVs in the future. The agreement includes structured capacity-building measures aimed at developing local expertise in design, assembly, and systems integration. Over time, the facility is expected to reduce Bangladesh’s dependence on imports while enhancing operational flexibility.

Operational Use and UAV Capabilities

The UAVs produced under the programme will support both civilian and military missions. These include humanitarian assistance, disaster management, surveillance, and operational roles. Initially, the Bangladesh Air Force will acquire capabilities to manufacture and assemble Medium Altitude Low Endurance (MALE) UAVs and Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAVs, reflecting a diversified approach to unmanned aviation requirements.

Important Facts for Exams

• MALE UAVs operate at medium altitudes with long endurance for surveillance missions.
• VTOL UAVs can take off and land vertically without runways.
• Technology transfer clauses aim to build long-term domestic defence capacity.
• China has been Bangladesh’s largest defence equipment supplier for decades.

Broader Defence Modernisation Context

The UAV manufacturing initiative aligns with Bangladesh’s wider military modernisation efforts. China remains a key defence partner, supplying a range of platforms and systems to Dhaka. Reports indicate that the Bangladesh Air Force is also finalising a major fighter aircraft acquisition to replace ageing fleets, signalling sustained investment in air power capabilities alongside unmanned systems.