Bangladesh is expanding its strategic partnerships and defence capabilities, raising questions about whether this reflects drift, diversification or deliberate consolidation.

As Bangladesh strengthens its military capabilities and security partnerships, it risks narrowing the strategic autonomy it seeks to protect.

Bangladesh is in the process of purchasing Chinese J-10CE fighter jets, attack helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems to modernise its air force, Prime Minister’s Policy and Strategy Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman has said.

Two Chinese fighter jets intercepted a US Navy surveillance plane over the East China Sea at the weekend, with one jet coming within about 300 feet (91 meters) of the American aircraft, US officials said on Monday.