Utilisation of Civil Aviation Assets by the Bangladesh Air Force During Wartime: A Strategic Assessment

Reading Time: 5 minutes This paper provides a comprehensive examination of the potential utilisation of civil aviation assets by the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) during times of war. It draws from both historical and contemporary examples to analyse the operational, logistical, and strategic feasibility of such practices. The 1971 Liberation War serves as a foundational case study to understand how non-military aviation resources can be effectively adapted for combat scenarios. Furthermore, the research delves into the modern aviation landscape in Bangladesh, detailing the current fleet available through state-owned and private airlines. Through this, the study identifies key aircraft types that could be repurposed, evaluates the associated financial and technical challenges, and outlines the potential benefits in terms of national security, force augmentation, and emergency preparedness. Emphasis is placed on the importance of regulatory frameworks, training, maintenance, and risk mitigation when deploying non-military aviation assets for wartime needs. 1. Introduction Military