Dhaka, 09 December 2025 (Tuesday): A significant milestone in the modernisation of the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) was achieved today with the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) between the Bangladesh Air Force and Leonardo S.p.A. of Italy for the procurement of the Eurofighter Typhoon multi-role combat aircraft. The historic signing ceremony took place at Air Headquarters, Dhaka, in the distinguished presence of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan, BBP, OSP, GUP, NDU, PSC, and the Hon’ble Ambassador of Italy to Bangladesh, H.E. Antonio Alessandro. Senior officials from the Armed Forces Division and representatives from Italy also attended the occasion.
The signing of this Letter of Intent marks a decisive step forward in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Bangladesh Air Force and reflects the growing defence and strategic cooperation between Bangladesh and Italy. The Eurofighter Typhoon, one of the world’s most advanced fourth-plus generation multi-role combat aircraft, is set to become a critical component of the BAF’s frontline combat fleet under this agreement.
A Landmark Occasion at Air Headquarters
The ceremony at Air Headquarters was held in a formal and dignified atmosphere befitting the importance of the occasion. Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan, who has been steering the Bangladesh Air Force through a period of rapid modernisation and technological transformation, expressed deep satisfaction over the signing of the LOI. The presence of Italian Ambassador H.E. Antonio Alessandro underscored the importance of this development not only for defence cooperation but also for broader bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.
Senior military officials, including the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division, along with high-ranking representatives from Leonardo S.p.A. and other Italian stakeholders, were present to witness the event. The gathering reflected the strong institutional engagement on both sides and the shared commitment to advancing defence collaboration.
Strategic Importance of the Eurofighter Typhoon Procurement
Under the Letter of Intent, Leonardo S.p.A. will supply the Bangladesh Air Force with the Eurofighter Typhoon as part of its plan to induct state-of-the-art multi-role combat aircraft into its frontline service. This move is widely seen as a transformational step for the BAF, significantly enhancing its air combat capabilities across multiple domains.
The Eurofighter Typhoon is renowned for its exceptional performance in both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles. With advanced avionics, powerful engines, cutting-edge radar systems, and superior manoeuvrability, the aircraft is designed to dominate modern combat environments. Its induction will greatly strengthen Bangladesh’s ability to safeguard its airspace, protect national sovereignty, and respond effectively to emerging security challenges.
For the Bangladesh Air Force, which has consistently pursued a path of modernisation in line with the government’s long-term defence vision, the prospective acquisition of the Eurofighter Typhoon represents a qualitative leap in combat readiness and deterrence capability. The aircraft’s multi-role nature will allow it to perform a wide range of missions, including air superiority, interdiction, close air support, reconnaissance, and maritime strike operations.
Alignment with Bangladesh’s Defence Modernisation Vision
The signing of the LOI aligns closely with Bangladesh’s broader defence modernisation objectives and the government’s long-term development and security strategy. Over the past decade, the Bangladesh Armed Forces have undergone significant transformation through the induction of modern platforms, advanced weapon systems, and enhanced training infrastructure.
The Bangladesh Air Force, in particular, has made remarkable progress in expanding its operational footprint with the acquisition of modern fighter aircraft, transport planes, helicopters, surveillance systems, and air defence assets. The proposed induction of the Eurofighter Typhoon will further elevate the BAF’s status as a technologically capable air force in the region.
As Bangladesh continues to grow economically and assumes greater responsibilities in regional stability and international peacekeeping, the importance of credible air power has become more pronounced. The Eurofighter Typhoon will not only serve as a powerful deterrent but will also enable the BAF to participate more effectively in joint exercises, multinational operations, and United Nations peace support missions.
Leonardo S.p.A.: A Global Defence and Aerospace Leader
Leonardo S.p.A. is one of the world’s leading aerospace, defence, and security companies, with a long history of technological innovation and international collaboration. Headquartered in Italy, the company plays a central role in the Eurofighter Typhoon consortium, alongside partners from Germany, the United Kingdom, and Spain.
Leonardo’s involvement in this prospective programme reflects the company’s growing footprint in South Asia and its confidence in Bangladesh as a long-term strategic partner. Through this LOI, Leonardo has signalled its intention not only to supply advanced combat aircraft but also to explore opportunities for training, maintenance, logistics support, and possible technology cooperation in the future.
For Bangladesh, partnership with a globally reputed defence manufacturer such as Leonardo brings access to world-class technology, operational expertise, and robust after-sales support, all of which are crucial for sustaining a sophisticated combat aircraft fleet over the long term.
Strengthening Bangladesh–Italy Defence Cooperation
The signing of the LOI represents a major step forward in defence relations between Bangladesh and Italy. Traditionally, cooperation between the two countries has been strong in areas such as trade, development, maritime affairs, and diplomacy. This new development adds a significant defence and security dimension to the bilateral partnership.
Ambassador H.E. Antonio Alessandro, in his remarks, highlighted Italy’s commitment to deepening strategic ties with Bangladesh and supporting its defence capability development. He noted that the collaboration with the Bangladesh Air Force through Leonardo S.p.A. would open new avenues for industrial cooperation, technical training, and long-term partnership in the aerospace and defence sector.
From Bangladesh’s perspective, the engagement with Italy reflects a diversified approach to defence procurement and international cooperation, ensuring access to advanced technology from reliable and friendly nations.
Operational Capabilities of the Eurofighter Typhoon
The Eurofighter Typhoon is widely regarded as one of the most capable multi-role fighter aircraft in service today. Designed as a twin-engine, canard-delta wing aircraft, it offers outstanding agility, high speed, and superior combat performance. Its advanced sensor suite, including modern radar and electronic warfare systems, enables pilots to detect, track, and engage multiple targets in complex combat environments.
The aircraft’s ability to carry a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons makes it an exceptionally versatile platform. It can undertake missions ranging from air defence and interception to precision strike and close air support. This flexibility is particularly valuable for a country like Bangladesh, which faces diverse security challenges across its land, air, and maritime domains.
With the induction of the Eurofighter Typhoon, the Bangladesh Air Force is expected to achieve a significant boost in operational reach, response time, and combat effectiveness. The platform’s integration into BAF service will also necessitate advanced pilot training, simulator facilities, and comprehensive maintenance infrastructure, all of which are expected to be part of the broader cooperation framework with Leonardo.
Implications for Regional Security and Stability
The prospective acquisition of the Eurofighter Typhoon by the Bangladesh Air Force is likely to have important implications for regional security dynamics. Bangladesh has consistently maintained a defence posture that is defensive in nature and aimed at preserving peace, stability, and sovereignty.
By strengthening its air power capabilities, Bangladesh seeks to ensure credible deterrence while continuing to play a constructive role in regional security frameworks. The modernisation of the BAF is also expected to enhance interoperability with friendly nations during joint exercises and multinational peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance operations.
It is important to note that Bangladesh’s approach to defence modernisation has always been guided by principles of transparency, responsibility, and alignment with international norms. The LOI with Leonardo S.p.A. reflects these principles and demonstrates Bangladesh’s commitment to building a modern, professional, and capable air force.
Economic and Technological Benefits
Beyond its military significance, the LOI also holds potential economic and technological benefits for Bangladesh. Large-scale defence procurement programmes often involve technology transfer, local capacity building, and long-term industrial cooperation.
While specific details of the agreement will be finalised at later stages, the collaboration with Leonardo may open opportunities for Bangladeshi engineers, technicians, and defence professionals to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge aerospace technology. In the long run, such exposure can contribute to the development of indigenous maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign support and enhancing national self-reliance.
Additionally, strengthened defence ties often have positive spill-over effects in other sectors, including trade, education, and research collaboration between the two countries.
A Vision for the Future of the Bangladesh Air Force
The Bangladesh Air Force has, over the years, evolved from a modest force into a modern and professional service equipped with advanced aircraft and systems. Its participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions around the world has earned it a reputation for discipline, professionalism, and technical competence.
The signing of the LOI for the Eurofighter Typhoon signals the BAF’s ambition to further elevate its operational standards and prepare for the challenges of 21st-century air warfare. It reflects a forward-looking vision that recognises the growing importance of air power in national defence, disaster response, and international security cooperation.
Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan has repeatedly emphasised the importance of technological advancement, human resource development, and international partnership in building a capable and future-ready air force. The current development stands as a concrete manifestation of that vision.
Remarks
The signing of the Letter of Intent between the Bangladesh Air Force and Leonardo S.p.A. of Italy for the supply of Eurofighter Typhoon multi-role combat aircraft marks a historic and strategically significant moment for Bangladesh’s defence landscape. Held in the presence of the Chief of Air Staff and the Italian Ambassador, the ceremony symbolised the deepening of bilateral ties and the shared commitment to advancing defence cooperation.
For the Bangladesh Air Force, the Eurofighter Typhoon promises to be a game-changing addition to its frontline fleet, dramatically enhancing its air combat, deterrence, and multi-mission capabilities. For Bangladesh and Italy, the LOI opens a new chapter in strategic partnership, technological collaboration, and mutual trust.
As Bangladesh continues its journey towards becoming a modern, resilient, and prosperous nation, the strengthening of its air power through such forward-looking initiatives will play a vital role in safeguarding sovereignty, ensuring national security, and contributing to regional and global stability.
M.Z. Rahman is a distinguished defence and aerospace industry veteran turned strategist, with over two decades of experience in regional security, military modernisation, and strategic policy. Holding a Master of Arts in International Relations and Security Studies from Waikato University, New Zealand, he has contributed extensively to leading think tanks and defence journals worldwide. As Chief Editor of BDMilitary, Rahman drives the editorial vision, delivering authoritative, rigorously researched insights that reflect the latest trends in defence and geopolitics. His work integrates industry expertise with strategic foresight, establishing him as a respected voice in global defence strategy.
