Bangladesh plans $2.2b purchase of 20 Chinese J-10 fighter jets

Bangladesh is advancing plans to modernise its air defence by purchasing 20 advanced J-10CE multirole fighter jets from China at an estimated cost of $2.2 billion (around Tk27,060 crore). 

The procurement aims to bolster the Bangladesh Air Force’s operational capabilities and strategic deterrence as part of its long-term modernization roadmap.
According to government sources, the deal will encompass not only the aircraft but also training, maintenance, logistical support, and associated systems. The purchase is expected to be executed between the fiscal years 2026 and 2027, either through a direct commercial contract or a government-to-government (G2G) framework. The Ministry of Finance has been tasked with arranging phased payments over a 10-year period, extending up to FY2035–36.
The J-10CE, the export version of China’s J-10C fighter, is a 4.5-generation multirole aircraft developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. Equipped with advanced radar, precision-guided munitions, and electronic warfare systems, it can perform both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The jet recently gained global attention after unverified reports suggested it performed successfully in simulated or real engagements during the India–Pakistan clashes in May 2025.
Accourding Official documents indicate that the base cost per aircraft is approximately $60 million, with an additional $820 million earmarked for training, equipment, and freight. Insurance, VAT, agency commissions, and other ancillary costs bring the total projected expenditure to $2.2 billion.
During his March visit to Beijing, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus discussed the aircraft purchase with senior Chinese officials. The Chinese government reportedly welcomed the proposal, describing it as a step toward “deepening strategic defence cooperation.” Following this, an 11-member inter-ministerial committee was established in April, led by Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, to finalise the purchase terms and oversee negotiations. The committee includes senior representatives from the Defence Ministry, Finance Division, Economic Relations Division, and Law Ministry.
The Bayi Aerobatic Team China’s elite air display unit, adopted the J-10A and J-10S in 2009 and transitioned to the latest J-10C variant in 2023. With aerial refuelling support from the YU-20 tanker, the team has performed extended international demonstration flights, showcasing China’s growing aviation prowess.
Currently, the Bangladesh Air Force operates a fleet of 212 aircraft, including 44 fighter jets—36 of which are Chinese-made F-7s. The force’s frontline fighters include eight MiG-29Bs, complemented by Russian Yak-130 light attack jets. The BAF’s rotary-wing fleet includes Soviet-origin Mi-17 helicopters, while its fixed-wing transport capabilities are supported by C-130J aircraft. For pilot training, the force relies on advanced Chinese K-8 trainers.
Military analysts view the proposed acquisition of J-10CEs as a strategic move that would significantly upgrade Bangladesh’s air combat capability, allowing the country to phase out ageing F-7s and align its defence posture with modern regional standards.