Bangladesh Looks to South Korea to Expand Helicopter Fleet

Reading Time: 3 minutes The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) is reportedly evaluating a proposal to acquire two modern helicopter types from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), in a move that would significantly enhance its rotary-wing combat and support capabilities. The proposal includes the LAH-1 Mirion light armed helicopter and the KUH-1 Surion multi-role utility helicopter, with six units of each type under consideration, bringing the total potential acquisition to 12 aircraft. The Bangladesh Army is also understood to be interested in South Korean helicopters, reflecting a wider effort across the armed forces to modernise aviation assets. Addressing Ageing Russian-Origin Helicopters Bangladesh’s armed forces currently operate a number of helicopters of Russian origin, many of which have served for decades. However, maintaining these platforms has become increasingly difficult due to spare parts shortages, rising maintenance costs, and limited access to technical support. These challenges have been compounded by geopolitical tensions and sanctions