Military Cooperation with the United States: A New Horizon of Diplomatic Success for the Yunus Government

Dhaka,17  September 2025 – Under the leadership of the current interim Prime Minister Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh has taken defense and strategic cooperation with the United States to a new height. Recent joint military exercises, enhanced defense capabilities, and diplomatic commitments all indicate that Bangladesh-U.S. relations are moving toward a closer and more friendly partnership.

Joint Exercises: A Symbol of Trust and Competence

The Pacific Angel 25-3 exercise held in Chattogram not only provided training in humanitarian assistance and disaster management but also stood as a symbol of mutual trust between the United States and Bangladesh. Similarly, the Tiger Lightning 2025 exercise conducted in July enhanced peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and jungle warfare skills. The long-running Tiger Shark 2025 special forces training program has further strengthened Bangladesh’s crisis-response capacity.

Strategic Position and Indo-Pacific Partnership

The United States has long been working to maintain strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific region. Bangladesh is being viewed as an essential partner in this effort due to its geographic location. With the Bay of Bengal and the Matarbari deep-sea port at the center, Bangladesh is emerging as strategically indispensable for global powers.

Achievements of the Yunus Government

From the very beginning, the Yunus government has been striving to build confidence in the international arena. Strengthening ties with the United States is seen as one of its major diplomatic achievements. While the previous government had resisted closer military partnerships, the Yunus government has received U.S. support and elevated this cooperation to new heights.

Enhancing Defense Capabilities

The RQ-21 Blackjack drone program being developed by the United States for the Bangladesh Army and Navy is set to bring a transformative change in the country’s maritime surveillance and border security. At the same time, discussions are underway regarding the purchase of modern U.S. defense equipment. Experts say this will diversify Bangladesh’s defense reliance instead of depending on a single country.

Regional Implications

Although some neighboring countries, particularly India, have expressed concern, observers believe that the growing closeness between the U.S. and Bangladesh actually carries a positive message for regional peace and stability.

A Path Toward a Friendly Future

The U.S. Embassy has repeatedly emphasized that this cooperation is not just military but also reflects mutual trust, humanitarian assistance, and peacebuilding. As a result, it is not merely a defense agreement but the foundation of a long-term friendly relationship between Bangladesh and the United States.