Turkey’s defense push in Bangladesh sparks New Delhi concerns amid India-Pakistan standoff

Bangladesh and Turkey are significantly enhancing their defense cooperation through joint industrial projects, technology transfers, and military deals, signaling a strategic partnership in South Asia.

Under the leadership of Mohammed Yunus, Bangladesh is negotiating with Turkey to establish defense industrial complexes in Chattogram and Narayanganj, aiming to boost local military production capabilities.

Last year, Bangladesh purchased 18 units of MKE Boran 105mm howitzers, with plans to increase this number to 200 units in the future. This expansion reflects Bangladesh's intent to modernize and strengthen its artillery forces.

The timing of this growing defense relationship is critical, as it coincides with heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Turkey's open support for Pakistan during recent military standoffs has raised alarms in New Delhi.

Turkey's increasing military presence in Bangladesh, India's eastern neighbor, is viewed with concern by New Delhi, given the complex regional dynamics and ongoing India-Pakistan rivalry.

The main goal of Bangladesh's engagement with Turkey is to deepen strategic defense ties, including co-production of military equipment, technology transfer, and capacity building.

This partnership could shift regional power balances and complicate India's security calculations amid its longstanding conflict with Pakistan.

As Bangladesh pursues these defense collaborations, New Delhi is likely to monitor the developments closely, wary of Turkey's expanding influence in South Asia.

Overall, the Bangladesh-Turkey defense push represents a significant geopolitical development with potential implications for regional security and India’s strategic interests.

Bangladesh and Turkey are deepening defense ties through joint projects and military deals, including plans to build defense complexes and increase artillery purchases. Turkey's support for Pakistan amid India-Pakistan tensions raises concerns in New Delhi over its growing influence in Bangladesh.