Indian media has reported that Bangladesh is allegedly seeking to acquire short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) from Pakistan to bolster its defense capabilities and deter potential Indian aggression. According to the Indian Defense Research Wing, Dhaka has approached Islamabad to purchase Abdali missiles, which have a range of 400 kilometers. These missiles, known as Hatf-II in Pakistan, are designed for tactical battlefield use and could target India's northeastern regions, potentially altering the strategic balance in South Asia.
The report suggests that Pakistan may agree to the deal for two reasons: to expand its regional influence by supporting Bangladesh, which currently has strained relations with India, and because the sale would not disrupt the defense equilibrium with Pakistan due to the missile's limited range. However, the transaction would require careful navigation of international arms control regimes like the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which may influence Islamabad's final decision.
Defense experts warn that Bangladesh's acquisition of Abdali missiles could escalate an arms race in the region, prompting India to strengthen its missile defenses and offensive capabilities. Analysts also view this development as a response to India's growing military presence near the Bangladesh border and the strained relations between the two nations following recent political changes in Dhaka. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been criticized by New Delhi for failing to address communal violence against minorities in Bangladesh, further deepening the diplomatic rift.
The report suggests that Pakistan may agree to the deal for two reasons: to expand its regional influence by supporting Bangladesh, which currently has strained relations with India, and because the sale would not disrupt the defense equilibrium with Pakistan due to the missile's limited range. However, the transaction would require careful navigation of international arms control regimes like the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which may influence Islamabad's final decision.Defense experts warn that Bangladesh's acquisition of Abdali missiles could escalate an arms race in the region, prompting India to strengthen its missile defenses and offensive capabilities. Analysts also view this development as a response to India's growing military presence near the Bangladesh border and the strained relations between the two nations following recent political changes in Dhaka. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been criticized by New Delhi for failing to address communal violence against minorities in Bangladesh, further deepening the diplomatic rift.