NAVAL AVIATION | EYES OVER THE HORIZION
Bangladesh Navy's Aviation is a crucial enabler for maintaining Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and securing the nation's vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal.
Assets and Mission Capabilities
Current aviation fleet acts as the "eyes of the fleet." It allows the navy to carry out a wide range of missions. These include long-range reconnaissance and shipborne combat support.
Fixed-Wing Fleet: Dornier 228 NG Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA)
The Dornier 228NG is a Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) of Bangladesh Navy. It is equipped with advanced sensor systems for Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions for providing extended endurance to cover entire Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
Rotary-Wing Fleet: Agusta Westland AW109E Helicopters
Agusta Westland AW109 is a multi-role utility helicopter. It is an important force multiplier for the Bangladesh Navy. The helicopter is designed to operate from major naval vessels. Its speed and agility make it ideal for Search and Rescue (SAR), Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) and various embarked operations. It also helps extend the surface fleet's combat awareness through over the horizon targeting.
Rotary-Wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Fleet: Schiebel S-100 Camcopter
Bangladesh Navy operates Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). These UAVs can take off from major naval ships with a flight deck and Ground Control Station (GCS). They can send data in real time and can operate from both shore-based & ship-based GCS. With their surface shadowing capability, they provide aerial observation and over the horizon targeting. Flying at high altitudes for long periods, they can cover the entire EEZ and improve the awareness and effectiveness of surface ships.