Dhaka: The Armed Forces of Bangladesh and the United States military are set to deepen their longstanding defence partnership this summer through a series of joint military exercises, alongside the introduction of a new capability aimed at enhancing shared security objectives. “These efforts help to make the United States and Bangladesh stronger, and the region safer,” read a media note issued by the US embassy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, for the fourth consecutive year, the Bangladesh Army and U.S. Army Pacific will conduct Exercise Tiger Lightning. This initiative focuses on realistic training, allowing soldiers to develop readiness for counterterrorism, peacekeeping, jungle operations, medical evacuations, and countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
In addition to Tiger Lightning, the longstanding Exercise Tiger Shark, part of the Flash Bengal series, will continue to bolster ties between the two nations. This joint training exercise, which has been ongoing since 2009, involves the Special Forces from both countries practicing combat tasks such as patrol boat handling and small arms marksmanship. These activities aim to strengthen Bangladesh’s Special Warfare Diving and Salvage and the Para Commando Brigade’s ability to respond to crises. A notable aspect of this exercise is the use of U.S. equipment by both countries.
Exercise Pacific Angel, also in its fourth iteration with Bangladesh, will further solidify defense relations. It will emphasize the critical role of C-130 fleets in disaster response airdrops and air mobility operations. Additionally, the exercise will enhance capabilities in Search and Rescue (SAR) and Aeromedical operations, further developing Bangladesh’s ability to respond to humanitarian disasters.
In a significant development, the United States is collaborating with Bangladesh’s Army and Navy to establish an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) capability. A dedicated Bangladesh Regiment, comprising Army and Navy personnel, will operate the new RQ-21 Blackjack system. This joint effort aims to enable Bangladesh to monitor its maritime domain, secure its borders, and conduct peacekeeping missions.