With the rise of security concerns in the Indian Ocean, the importance of the Bay of Bengal has risen simultaneously. To assert its rightful role in the Bay, BN has embarked on a long due modernization initiative, which began with the adoption of the 10 year development plan in 2009. This plan thoroughly assessed the BN's deficiencies and will address them in phases. Transnational threats and encroachment upon national interests at sea have made monitoring, enforcement and deterrence capabilities a must for Bangladesh's maritime sovereignty.
In this thread we will discuss only those Naval assets that have been already introduced (must have an authentic source to claim), those that have been ordered (must have confirmed source) and those which has been planned (must have confirmed source).
The Modernization drive
Maritime surveillance:
In ocean management, maritime surveillance is paramount against both conventional and non-conventional threats. Lacking air surveillance capabilities, Bangladesh Navy depended heavily on the surface ship deployments for the maritime policing role. However, recent establishment of the Aviation Wing may see a sweeping change in surveillance capability and pattern.
The Aviation Wing now has both rotary and fixed wing air assets.
The Aviation Assets:
Fixed Wing MPA:
RUAG Aviation has delivered two Dornier 228 (NG) New Generation aircraft to the Bangladesh Navy.
The Bangladesh Navy’s Dornier 228 NG will be deployed for maritime air patrol and rescue missions along the country’s 580 km coastline. To ensure that the aircraft fulfill their missions effectively, they have been highly customised with special mission sensor equipment. This includes a 360° surveillance radar, Telephonics RDR-1700B radar and operator console as well as HF, VHF/UHF and VHF FM radios. A search-and-rescue (SAR) direction finder, 6 observer seats and 2 bubble windows – one on either side – further enhance the aircraft’s search and patrol capabilities.
The Bangladesh Navy’s Dornier 228 NG also come equipped with a door that can be opened in flight, as well as a marine marker and life raft. This enables the active engagement of the aircraft in SAR operations.
Rotary Wing:
On 14th June 2011 Bangladesh Navy acquired two AW109 Power maritime helicopters. The helicopters are used for a wide range of naval missions including search and rescue, economic zone protection, surface surveillance and maritime security. The aircraft is capable of being operated from the frigate BNS Bangabandhu. The contract also includes a comprehensive training package including VFR/IFR conversion for aircrew, initial operational maritime training using an AW109 Power Level-D flight simulator and training for maintenance engineers.
The AW109 Power is a 3 ton class eight seat helicopter powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW206C engines with FADEC. The spacious cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles. The aircraft’s safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.
The AW109 Power has established itself as the world’s best selling light-twin helicopter for maritime missions. The AW109 Power’s superior speed, capacity and productivity combined with reliability and ease of maintenance make it the most cost effective maritime helicopter in its class. For shipboard operations the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures. The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW109 Power to perform its mission when many others helicopters would be confined to the ship’s hangar.
Sources:
Bangladesh Navy Orders Two AgustaWestland AW109 Powers | AgustaWestland
RUAG - Mediadetail
