France Offers Long-Range Air Defence Systems to Bangladesh Air Force

The Chronify

December 24, 2025

In a significant move to bolster defence ties between France and Bangladesh, the French government has proposed the Aster SAMP/T NG long-range surface-to-air missile system to the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF). This offer is part of France's broader strategy to deepen bilateral defence cooperation and strengthen its strategic presence in Bangladesh’s air power modernisation efforts.

On 15 December, French Ambassador to Bangladesh, Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, visited the Bangladesh Air Force Headquarters, where he met with Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, the Chief of Air Staff of the BAF. During the meeting, the ambassador expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing discussions, stating, "We discussed strategic issues, opportunities to strengthen cooperation, and build closer ties between our two air forces."

The offer of the Aster SAMP/T NG missile system is aimed at enhancing Bangladesh's air defence capabilities, contributing to the modernization of its air force. This proposal follows Bangladesh's recent decision to sign a Letter of Intent with Italian company Leonardo for the Eurofighter Typhoon multirole combat aircraft, a move that has effectively sidelined France’s Rafale fighter jets in the country’s air defence plans.

This development marks a new chapter in the growing defence cooperation between Bangladesh and France, as both countries seek to enhance their military ties and regional strategic stability. With the introduction of advanced air defence systems, Bangladesh’s air force is poised to further strengthen its defensive capabilities in the coming years.