Bangladesh to acquire 24 advanced fighter jets from China

As part of its renewed foreign policy, the government is finalising plans to acquire 24 advanced J-10CE multi-role fighter jets from China.

The military deal is expected to gain significant momentum during Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's ongoing visit to Beijing, which began on Monday, June 22. The visit is also set to deepen bilateral cooperation in defence, infrastructure, trade and investment.

A senior government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the final contract for the fighter jet purchase is expected to be signed by August this year. Each advanced Chinese fighter jet has an estimated market price of approximately $40 million.

A Chinese delegation visited Dhaka last week to expedite the negotiations, and during the Beijing visit, Bangladeshi representatives are expected to hold separate meetings with Chinese defence and foreign ministers to finalise the details.

The defence talks are part of a broader effort to elevate bilateral relations. Officials hope that following an official bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, the current strategic relationship will be upgraded to a 'Shared Future' partnership, as announced in a joint declaration.

Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siyam said nearly 17 agreements, memorandums of understanding and declarations are likely to be signed during the prime minister's visit.

Among the key economic cooperation initiatives, discussions will include a joint feasibility study on the much-discussed Teesta River barrage project.

Additionally, both sides have agreed to jointly advance the modernisation of Mongla Port, the country's second-largest seaport, which has long suffered from various infrastructure limitations. To enhance the port's economic significance, the government has completed preparations to offer China a special 110-acre economic zone at Mongla.