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SOURCE: AFI

In a remarkable shift in its military procurement strategy, Bangladesh has recently shown interest in the Chinese-Pakistani joint venture, the JF-17 Thunder, after earlier considerations of acquiring more advanced Western and Chinese fighters like the Eurofighter Typhoon, Rafale, and J-10CE. This development was highlighted when Bangladeshi pilots were photographed inside the cockpit of JF-17 jets during a visit to Pakistan, as reported by various Pakistani media outlets.

Bangladesh’s pursuit of modernizing its air force has been marked by a strategic evaluation of various aircraft. Initially, there were reports of interest in the Eurofighter Typhoon and later in France’s Rafale, both known for their advanced capabilities and technology. However, the high costs associated with these Western jets, coupled with geopolitical considerations, might have led Bangladesh to reassess its options. The interest in the J-10CE, China’s fourth-generation-plus fighter, was a step in that direction, showcasing Bangladesh’s intent to diversify its military assets.

Priced at approximately $40 million per unit, the JF-17 is significantly more affordable than its Western counterparts, making it an appealing option for a country like Bangladesh, which must balance military modernization with economic constraints.

A key factor in Bangladesh’s interest in the JF-17 is the familiarity of its pilots with the aircraft’s engine. The JF-17 uses the Russian Klimov RD-93 engine, which is similar to the RD-33 engines used in Bangladesh Air Force’s MiG-29 fleet. This similarity could streamline training, maintenance, and logistics, thereby reducing costs and easing integration into the existing air force structure .

Despite being less advanced than the Eurofighter or Rafale, the JF-17 offers a balanced package for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, suitable for Bangladesh’s defence needs. Its design allows for upgrades, ensuring that the aircraft can evolve with technological advancements.