A. R. Salauddin Ferdous

As of 2025, Bangladesh remains far behind in developing a modern air defense system. This gap is a big threat to the safety of the country. Tensions between India and Pakistan are growing. Regional powers are quickly building up their military strength. In such a time, Bangladesh's weak air defense is becoming a major concern.

Bangladesh mostly uses the FM-90 short-range missile system, which it bought from China in 2011. The FM-90 can stop low-flying drones, helicopters, or planes, but it can't stop fast fighter jets or long-range missiles. This makes our national defense very weak.

The Air Force has a total of 44 fighter aircraft. There are 36 F-7 series jets made in China and 8 MiG-29s made in Russia. In terms of numbers and technology, Bangladesh is far behind other South Asian countries. The world is moving towards air defense systems with multiple layers that can protect against threats at short, medium, and long ranges. But Bangladesh remains stuck at a basic level.

Several reasons explain why our air defense system remains so weak.

First, the defense budget is insufficient. In the proposed national budget for FY 2025–26, the government allocated Tk 40,698 crore for defense, which is Tk 1,316 crore less than the previous year. Of that, Tk 37,812 crore is for operational purposes, with Tk 916 crore for development. In contrast, India has spent more than ₹7 lakh crore on defense, while Pakistan has seen a 17% increase in its budget. By comparison, Bangladesh's share appears to be negligible.

Second, defense has never been a national priority in our country. The country has focused on economic growth, infrastructure, and social development. Defense has often been treated as a secondary concern.

Third, Bangladesh lacks the technological ability to produce advanced air defense systems. Modern systems in the international market are expensive. Budget limitations prevent us from acquiring them.

Fourth, there is little to no research in defense technology. Some initiatives do exist, but poor management and lack of long-term planning make them ineffective. Most universities in Bangladesh do not have specialized departments for defense technology. There is also a lack of incentives and career paths for researchers in this field. As a result, we are failing to build local expertise.

Fifth, long-term planning remains weak. Bangladesh has adopted the "Forces Goal 2030" modernization plan, but progress has been slow. Many parts of the plan remain on paper.

Sixth, the private sector plays no role in defense research. In many developed countries, private companies actively contribute to defense innovation. In Bangladesh, this collaboration is non-existent.

Despite these challenges, solutions are possible.

The government must increase the defense budget and ensure sufficient funding for development. Currently, Tk 916 crore for development is far too little to meet modern military needs. Bangladesh should also build a national defense research and development agency. If that is not possible, universities and the military must work together to expand research. Scholarships and fellowships in defense technology should be introduced to create a pool of skilled researchers.

Private companies must be encouraged to participate in defense research. The government can offer tax incentives or grants to promote this. Bangladesh should also pursue technology transfer agreements with countries like China and Russia. The 2002 Defense Cooperation Agreement with China can be updated and implemented more effectively to build local production capacity.

To meet modern security needs, Bangladesh must develop a multi-layered air defense system. This includes short-, medium-, and long-range missile systems working together. The country must also prepare for new threats like drone attacks and cyber warfare. Bangladesh has already taken a positive step by initiating the purchase of counter-drone surveillance systems.

At the same time, regional cooperation must remain balanced. Bangladesh should engage with both India and China while maintaining its strategic neutrality. Given our location in a geopolitically sensitive zone, we must act with caution and wisdom.

There is growing concern among defense analysts about the country’s lag in air defense. But this weakness does not have to be permanent. Bangladesh must formulate a long-term and integrated defense strategy that reflects our economic capacity, geographic location, and security risks. Defense investment should not be seen as a burden but as essential for protecting national sovereignty and security.

A strong air defense is not a luxury. It is a necessity for a strategically located country like Bangladesh. With commitment from the government, policymakers, and public support, Bangladesh can one day ensure a secure sky for its people.

The author is essayist and columnist, former student of the Department of Statistics,

Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University.He can reached at email  ferdous5803@gmail.com