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Published : 03 Feb 2026, 09:36 PM
In the final days of its tenure, the interim administration has signed a defence equipment and technology transfer agreement with Japan, marking a significant step in strategic cooperation between the countries.
The pact was signed on Tuesday at Dhaka Cantonment, according to separate statements issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) and Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Bangladesh was represented by Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division Lt Gen SM Kamrul Hasan, while Japanese Ambassador Shinichi Saida signed on behalf of his country.
The ISPR described the deal as elevating the “strategic partnership and enduring friendship” between the two nations.
The specific types of defence equipment and technology to be transferred, however, were not disclosed.
According to ISPR sources, the agreement is the result of continuous and intensive cooperation between the two sides since 2023.
The defence body said the pact reflects “deep mutual trust, coordinated vision, and collaboration”, achieved through the interim government’s “far-sighted and effective diplomacy”.
ISPR expects the deal to accelerate Bangladesh’s defence modernisation process.
It noted that, in full compliance with UN charter principles, the agreement will provide advanced technology and equipment, support joint research and development, and strengthen institutional frameworks to safeguard Bangladesh’s sovereignty and contribute to regional stability.
It added that the agreement will enhance military expertise exchange between the two countries, thereby supporting Bangladesh’s future defence planning.
Japan’s foreign ministry confirmed that the pact establishes a legal framework for the transfer of defence equipment and technology, including projects contributing to international peace and security.
It also ensures proper control over the transferred assets and their use, preventing unauthorised third-party deployment, the ministry added.
In recent months, the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has advanced several high-profile defence acquisitions.
These include signing a letter of intent on Dec 9 with Italy’s Leonardo SPA to acquire Eurofighter Typhoon jets, as well as agreements with China for drone production in Mirsharai Economic Zone.
Other media reports highlight plans to acquire JF-17 Thunder aircraft from Pakistan, J-10C fighters from China, submarines from South Korea, T-129 attack helicopters from Turkey, Black Hawk multi-role helicopters from the United States, and a warship for Tk 6.5 billion to enhance naval capabilities.
These flurry of defence purchases in the final weeks of the interim government have already sparked questions.
Responding to reporters, National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman on Monday described the acquisitions as “ongoing processes”.
