Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday inaugurated the induction of first ever China-made surface-to-air missile system into the Bangladesh Air force (BAF) saying her government would continue its efforts for modernisation of the country’s armed forces.
The Bangladesh armed forces have witnessed a significant improvement during the tenure of the Awami League government and the process would continue in future, she said while addressing a function on the occasion at Kurmitola Base of the BAF in Dhaka city.
The prime minister said: “Today is a historic day for the BAF as induction of this short range air defense system is a big step forward towards modernisation of the air force.”
She referred to her government’s steps taken for modernisation of the air force during the period of 1996-2001, and said: “In this tenure we have already completed a full-fledged air base and maintenance unit in Cox’s Bazar while many other development projects aregoing on.”
She said: “Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman soon after the independence initiated for building a modern and well-equipped armed forces. In his initiative, sophisticated Mig- 21 fighter plane and cargo aircraft, helicopter and radar were inducted in the air force.”
In continuation of that process, the Awami League government during its previous tenure introduced various equipment and fighter planes including Mig-29 and F-7, new jet training aircraft and helicopter for the BAF.
The prime minister urged the members of the BAF to acquire professional skills and build them as efficient pilots, engineers and air force personnel. “Hard labour, acquisition of new technologies, and correct application of the acquired knowledge are essential for a modern air force,” she noted.
The FM-90 surface to air missile system, introduced with the support of China, has an advanced all-weather surface to air missile system. This ground based air defence weapon system is capable of engaging targets flying at low or very low altitude. As the prime minister arrived at the Kurmitola Air Base, Chief of the BAF Air Marshal Shah M Ziaur Rahman received her.
On this occasion a colourful march past of the air force was held. The prime minister inspected the march past and took salute.
The inauguration ceremony was followed by an attractive fly past by jet fighters of the air force.
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