Bangladesh–United States defence relations are poised for renewed momentum following the confirmation of Brent T. Christensen as the 15th United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, a development widely viewed as strategically significant for bilateral military and security cooperation. Christensen’s confirmation by the US Senate comes at a time of evolving regional geopolitics and growing emphasis on security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
The appointment fills an important diplomatic gap, as the US Embassy in Dhaka has been without a permanent ambassador since the departure of Ambassador Peter Haas in mid-2024. Defence analysts and diplomats alike see Christensen’s arrival as an opportunity to deepen engagement across political, military and strategic domains, particularly in defence cooperation, maritime security and military-to-military ties.
Christensen’s confirmation follows his appearance before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where he underscored Bangladesh’s importance to US strategic interests and explicitly highlighted the value of a strong and enduring defence partnership with Dhaka. His remarks to Senate officials reflected Washington’s recognition of Bangladesh as a key regional actor whose military professionalism and geographic position carry growing strategic relevance.
Extensive Diplomatic and Defence Policy Experience
Brent T. Christensen is a career diplomat with over two decades of service in the US Foreign Service, bringing deep institutional knowledge and regional experience to his new role. Prior to his nomination as ambassador, he served in several senior positions within the US Department of State, including roles that placed him at the centre of political-military decision-making.
Notably, Christensen previously served at the US Embassy in Dhaka, where he held senior political and economic responsibilities. This earlier posting provided him with direct exposure to Bangladesh’s governance structure, defence institutions and civil-military relations. His familiarity with the country is considered a major advantage, allowing him to resume engagement without the learning curve often associated with new diplomatic appointments.
In Washington, Christensen has held positions related to arms transfers, regional security policy and strategic planning. He has also worked on complex security challenges involving Asia, contributing to US policy formulation on defence partnerships, military assistance and regional stability. In addition, he served as Acting Under Secretary in a senior capacity, reinforcing his credentials as a trusted figure within US foreign policy circles.
This combination of field experience in Bangladesh and high-level policy work in Washington positions Christensen uniquely to bridge strategic objectives with on-the-ground realities.
Bangladesh’s Growing Strategic Significance
Bangladesh’s strategic importance has risen steadily over the past decade due to its economic growth, expanding military capabilities and key geographic location along the Bay of Bengal. As one of South Asia’s fastest-growing economies, Bangladesh has increasingly attracted attention from global and regional powers seeking to engage with Dhaka across economic, security and defence sectors.
From a defence perspective, Bangladesh maintains one of the most professional and active armed forces in the region, with a strong track record in United Nations peacekeeping missions and disaster response operations. Its military modernisation programmes, particularly in the naval and air domains, have further enhanced its regional profile.
During his Senate testimony, Christensen acknowledged Bangladesh’s role as a stabilising force in South Asia and emphasised the need for continued engagement with its armed forces. He stressed that defence cooperation remains a critical pillar of the broader bilateral relationship, alongside trade, development and people-to-people ties.
Existing Foundations of Defence Cooperation
Bangladesh and the United States already share a history of defence engagement that includes joint exercises, professional military education, training programmes and humanitarian assistance cooperation. These interactions have helped build mutual understanding and operational familiarity between the two armed forces.
Senior-level military exchanges have increased in recent years, with visits by US Army, Navy and Indo-Pacific Command officials to Dhaka, as well as Bangladeshi defence delegations travelling to the United States. Such engagements have focused on maritime security, disaster response, counter-terrorism cooperation and peacekeeping readiness.
The Bangladesh Armed Forces’ professionalism has been consistently acknowledged by US defence officials, particularly in the areas of discipline, operational planning and humanitarian assistance. These qualities align closely with US priorities in promoting capable and responsible security partners in the region.
Christensen’s appointment is expected to provide renewed diplomatic backing to these military-to-military ties, ensuring continuity and expanded scope for cooperation.
Geopolitical Context and Strategic Balance
Christensen’s confirmation also comes amid increasing geopolitical competition in South Asia, particularly involving major powers seeking influence through defence cooperation and infrastructure investment. Bangladesh has pursued a balanced foreign policy, engaging with multiple partners while maintaining strategic autonomy in its defence procurement and military relationships.
During his confirmation hearing, Christensen acknowledged concerns within Washington regarding growing Chinese involvement in Bangladesh’s defence sector. He indicated that, if confirmed, he would engage constructively with Bangladeshi officials to articulate US perspectives while respecting Bangladesh’s sovereign decision-making.
Rather than framing the relationship in confrontational terms, Christensen’s approach appears focused on offering Bangladesh credible alternatives, transparency and long-term partnership based on shared interests. This reflects a broader US strategy of strengthening partnerships through cooperation rather than coercion.
Maritime Security and the Bay of Bengal
One area where Christensen is expected to place particular emphasis is maritime security. The Bay of Bengal has become increasingly important for regional trade, energy flows and naval activity. Ensuring freedom of navigation, disaster response capability and maritime domain awareness remains a shared interest for both Bangladesh and the United States.
Bangladesh’s expanding naval capabilities and its strategic coastline make it a natural partner in maritime cooperation initiatives. US engagement in this area has historically focused on capacity building, training and information sharing, all of which are expected to continue under Christensen’s leadership.
Maritime cooperation is also closely linked to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, an area where both countries have collaborated effectively in the past, particularly during cyclones and flooding.
Peacekeeping and Global Security Contributions
Another cornerstone of Bangladesh–US defence ties is peacekeeping. Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, and the United States has long supported capacity building and training efforts to enhance Bangladeshi contingents’ effectiveness and safety.
Christensen has previously highlighted Bangladesh’s contributions to global peace and security, recognising the professionalism and sacrifice of its armed forces. Strengthening cooperation in peacekeeping training, logistics and operational planning is likely to remain a priority during his tenure.
Expectations Ahead
Christensen is expected to assume his duties in Dhaka in early 2026, following the completion of formal diplomatic procedures. His arrival will be closely watched by defence planners, diplomats and regional observers alike.
For Bangladesh, the presence of a full-time US ambassador with deep defence policy expertise offers an opportunity to advance dialogue on strategic cooperation, military modernisation and regional security issues. For the United States, it reinforces a commitment to sustained engagement with a key South Asian partner.
The confirmation of Brent T. Christensen as the United States Ambassador to Bangladesh marks an important moment in bilateral relations, particularly in the defence and security domain. With his extensive experience in political-military affairs and prior service in Dhaka, Christensen is well positioned to deepen trust, enhance cooperation and navigate the complexities of regional geopolitics.
As Bangladesh continues to strengthen its role as a responsible regional actor, and as the United States seeks reliable partners in an evolving Indo-Pacific security environment, Christensen’s tenure is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of Bangladesh–US defence relations.
Ayesha Farid is a regional security specialist focusing on South Asia, with over a decade of experience analysing inter-state tensions, cross-border insurgency, and regional power dynamics. She has worked with leading policy think tanks and academic institutions, offering nuanced insights into the complex security challenges shaping the subcontinent. Ayesha’s expertise spans military doctrines, border disputes, and regional cooperation frameworks, making her a vital contributor to BDMilitary’s coverage of South Asian strategic affairs. She leads the Geopolitics & Diplomacy section at BDMilitary. Ayesha holds a dual master’s degree — a Master in International Relations from the IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs, Spain, and a Master of Public Policy from the Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto, Canada — combining deep academic insight with practical policy expertise.
