Dhaka: Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan has called upon the peacekeepers of BANATU-15 to perform their duties with discipline, honesty, professionalism, and sincerity to enhance the reputation of both the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) and the nation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Air Chief addressed the members of the BANATU-15, the 15th Bangladesh Aviation Contingent, set to be deployed to the UN Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, during a gathering at the Air Headquarters. He emphasized the importance of their conduct in bringing a good name to the BAF and the country.
A release from the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate also reported that the Chief of Air Staff participated in a special prayer (munajat) for the success of the contingent. The BAF is in the process of replacing its BANATU-14, MONUSCO, DR Congo contingent, with Group Captain Mohammad Salim Javed leading the BANATU-15 team.
The contingent’s deployment schedule was also detailed, with 35 members set to depart from Hazrat Shahjalal (R) International Airport for the Democratic Republic of Congo on January 25, while the remaining 27 members will follow on February 2, 2026. The event was attended by Principal Staff Officers, the Air Officer Commanding of the Dhaka area, and senior BAF officers from Air Headquarters and Bases.
The ISPR noted that the BAF has deployed a C-130B aircraft and necessary ground support equipment for the mission area, ensuring the contingent’s operational readiness.