KHULNA: 'BNS Bishkhali' was commissioned into service with the Bangladesh Navy at a ceremony held at the BNS Titumir, a naval base in Khulna. The Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hasan was present at the event as the chief guest, marking a significant milestone for the Bangladesh Navy. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Admiral Hasan addressed the ceremony and highlighted the importance of building the Bangladesh Navy into a modern, strong, and capable force. He emphasized the necessity of a robust naval presence to protect the country's independence, sovereignty, economic development, and geopolitical interests. The commissioning of 'BNS Bishkhali' aligns with the ongoing efforts to enhance the Navy's capabilities as a skilled tri-dimensional force, with the ship being a landmark achievement in utilizing domestic technology for its construction. The 'BNS Bishkhali', like other warships, is set to play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests. It will aid in preventing smug gling, illegal fisheries extraction, and the intrusion of illegal goods, including drugs. Additionally, it will ensure the security of commercial ships from pirate threats and conduct operational drives along the coastal belt. The Navy Chief reiterated the Bangladesh Navy's dedication to maintaining security measures at sea ports, which are vital for achieving economic solvency, managing sea trade efficiently, implementing the blue economy, and addressing natural disasters. He highlighted that the Bangladesh Navy has significantly contributed to employment generation through shipbuilding at its own shipyard, thereby saving substantial foreign currency. Furthermore, the Navy is now capable of upgrading its inventory from being ship purchasers. The ceremony concluded with the chief guest handing over the commissioning decree to the captain of 'BNS Bishkhali' and officially unveiling the ship's name plaque. The event was attended by PSO of Navy headquarters, high-ranking naval and government officials, freedom fighters, and other distinguished guests.
