Dhaka: A Government-to-Government (G2G) contract for the purchase of the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Survey Ship ‘HMS Enterprise’ was signed between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom (UK) at the Bangladesh Navy headquarters here today. Assistant Chief of the Bangladesh Navy Rear Admiral Md Shafiqur Rahman and United Kingdom’s Defence Ministry’s Commercial Officer Ms. Nanise Qalobulawasaikabara signed the contract on behalf of their respective sides, according to a release from the Inter Services of Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Chief of the Navy Staff of Bangladesh Admiral M. Nazmul Hassan was present at the contract signing ceremony. The event was attended by the High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Bangladesh, UK’s Military Adviser, the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division, Joint Secretaries of various ministries, and senior officials of the Armed Forces Division and the Navy. The signing of this agreement has been possible due to continuous initiatives by both countries since 2025, the ISPR noted.
“HMS Enterprise” is a hydrographic survey ship of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom. It is equipped for deep sea surveys, seabed mapping, physical oceanographic data collection, and navigational chart preparation. The ship features a helicopter landing deck and communication facilities. It is expected to play a key role in implementing new survey standards set by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) for safe navigation and in enhancing the blue economy.
Joining the Bangladesh Navy, the ship will enhance hydrographic capabilities and aid marine research activities for students at Bangladesh Maritime University, Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute (BORI), and other universities. It will also support operations to prevent illegal intrusion, smuggling, piracy, rescue missions, and ensure surveillance in fisheries and oil and gas sectors.
The ship initially started its service with the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in 2002 and was decommissioned in 2023. It is anticipated to complete its Re-Generation by 2026 and join the Bangladesh Navy fleet in 2027.