Introduction

Bangladesh’s military aircraft are hovering near Myanmar and India due to escalating tensions and security concerns along its borders with both countries. This increased aerial activity can be attributed to several key factors:

Border Tensions with Myanmar

Arakan Army’s Control

The Arakan Army (AA) has recently claimed full control of Myanmar’s border with Bangladesh, capturing the last remaining junta base in Maungdaw Township. This has created instability and security concerns along the 271-kilometer Bangladesh-Myanmar border.

Cross-border Incidents

There have been reports of shelling, airspace violations, and illegal border crossings from Myanmar into Bangladesh. These incidents have prompted Bangladesh to increase its military presence and surveillance along the border.

Rohingya Refugee Crisis

The ongoing conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State has led to new incursions of Rohingya refugees into Bangladesh, further complicating the security situation.

Strained Relations with India

Rising Tensions

The relationship between Bangladesh and India has become strained, with reports of anti-Bangladesh sentiment in India and provocative statements from Indian officials.

Border Security

The deteriorating relations have likely led Bangladesh to increase its military presence along the Indian border as a precautionary measure.

Military Modernization Efforts

Forces Goal 2030

Bangladesh is in the process of modernizing its military, including the air force, under the “Forces Goal 2030” program. This modernization effort includes enhancing air defense capabilities and surveillance.

Strategic Deterrence

The increased aerial activity may be part of Bangladesh’s efforts to demonstrate its military capabilities and maintain strategic deterrence against potential threats from both Myanmar and India.

Internal Security Concerns

Non-state groups

The presence of groups like the Kuki-Chin National Army (KNA) within Bangladesh has raised internal security concerns, potentially necessitating increased aerial surveillance.

Conclusion

The hovering of Bangladesh military aircraft near Myanmar and India is a response to the complex security challenges the country faces on multiple fronts. It reflects Bangladesh’s efforts to protect its borders, monitor potential threats, and assert its military presence in the region amidst growing tensions with its neighbors.