Sheikh Hasina Questions Dhaka's Fighter Jet Deal with China Amid Economic Woes

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has raised serious questions regarding her nation's reported plans to acquire J-10CE fighter aircraft from China. In an exclusive audio interview, Hasina urged greater transparency and careful financial scrutiny before moving forward with major military purchases.

While acknowledging that Bangladesh has an absolute right to modernise its armed forces, she stressed that such defence acquisitions must be evaluated against the country's current financial capacity. She noted that people often ask whether Bangladesh needs an air force upgrade of this scale right now, especially given the mounting economic difficulties facing the nation.

Pointing to an International Monetary Fund growth projection of just 3.2 percent for the current fiscal year, Hasina highlighted widespread struggles within the banking sector and growing pressure on local businesses. She argued that these domestic economic realities necessitate extreme caution regarding large defence expenditures and questioned whether the decision was made transparently with proper regard for regional implications.

Major defence spending must align with economic realities and long-term national priorities.

Hasina also emphasised the importance of maintaining balanced foreign relations and avoiding geopolitical rivalries. She described India as the closest neighbour and China as an important development partner, while also noting cooperative ties previously maintained with the United States, Japan, and other global partners.

Why it matters

This debate over military procurement highlights the delicate diplomatic and economic balance Dhaka must maintain among major global powers. For readers in South Asia, regional security and foreign policy shifts directly influence cross-border stability, economic cooperation, and diplomatic dynamics across the subcontinent.