Bangladesh Air Force Advances Eurofighter Typhoon Evaluation in Major Fleet Modernization Drive

The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) is moving closer to a landmark modernization of its combat fleet with the evaluation of the Eurofighter Typhoon, a cutting-edge multirole combat aircraft developed by a European consortium including the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain. This initiative forms a key part of the BAF’s Forces Goal 2030 program aimed at transforming Bangladesh’s military capabilities for the 21st century.

In recent months, BAF pilots conducted orientation and demonstration flights in Italy, gaining firsthand experience with the Typhoon’s advanced avionics, radar systems, and weapons packages. The delegation, led by Air Chief Marshal Sheikh Abdul Hannan, also inspected maintenance and support facilities, signaling a deepening strategic partnership with European defense industries, particularly Leonardo S.p.A.

The proposed acquisition involves 16 Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 3+ jets at an estimated cost of $2.5 billion. This package includes not only the aircraft but also radar, training simulators, weapons, and plans to establish Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in Bangladesh. Such infrastructure development is expected to enhance the country’s sovereign defense capabilities and reduce long-term operational costs.

The Eurofighter Typhoon offers state-of-the-art features such as the Captor-E AESA radar, Meteor beyond-visual-range missiles, and modular design allowing future upgrades, including integration with the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS). While operational costs are higher than some competitors, the platform’s performance and interoperability with NATO-standard systems represent a significant leap for the BAF.

This potential acquisition marks a strategic pivot for Bangladesh, which has traditionally operated Russian and Chinese aircraft. The Eurofighter would provide enhanced air superiority, maritime strike capability, and networked warfare potential, crucial for securing the Bay of Bengal and regional airspace.

With Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s scheduled visit to Dhaka in August 2025, officials anticipate the formal signing of the contract, which would solidify Bangladesh’s entry into a new era of air power and defense diplomacy.

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