On 09 December, the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) and Leonardo S.p.A signed a letter-of-intent (LoI) outlining a potential purchase of Eurofighter Typhoon multirole fighters.
The LoI marks a significant step forward in the BAF’s efforts to modernize its fighter fleet, which dates back to 2017, when it issued a tender for 12 new twin-engine multirole combat aircraft (MRCA).
Before the LoI, the Bangladeshi government had signalled that it also approached China for new fighters, such as the J-10CE, but the BAF is evidently looking towards the Typhoon. Indeed, as Dhaka apparently approached China, the BAF’s decision-makers were in Italy evaluating their lead Western option.
The actual number of aircraft ordered, their configuration, and other elements (e.g., offsets) will likely be finalized through follow-up negotiations. However, the BAF requires 20 new fighter aircraft; thus, Dhaka could pursue a two-tranche program with Leonardo.
It is unclear whether the BAF would pursue a second fighter type to complement the Typhoon or adopt a single platform-based force structure (in line with most modern air defences).
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