Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has raised questions over the plan to buy J-10CE fighter aircraft from China. He described the country's economic condition, defense needs and regional balance as important. Also expressed his opinion on India-Bangladesh relations.
Dhaka: Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina has raised many questions regarding the preparation to buy fighter aircraft from China. In an audio interview released on Friday, November 13, 2026, he said that it is necessary to modernize the army, but for this the economic condition of the country cannot be ignored. Apart from the proposed J-10CE fighter aircraft deal, Hasina also spoke openly on relations with India, Bangladesh's economy and foreign policy.
Why did Hasina raise questions on purchasing fighter aircraft from China?
In an interview given to news agency IANS, Sheikh Hasina was asked a question about the increasing defense cooperation between Bangladesh and China. His opinion was especially sought on the plan to purchase J-10CE fighter aircraft from China. On this, Hasina said that Bangladesh has every right to modernize its army. His government also invested in the defense sector and maintained military cooperation with several countries, including China.
However, he said that some important questions should be answered before any major defense deal. Does Bangladesh really need these aircraft? Can the country afford such a big deal? How much transparency has been maintained in the procurement process? Hasina also asked what impact this decision could have on neighboring countries and regional security.
According to him, Bangladesh is currently facing economic challenges. In such a situation, all aspects should be seriously reviewed before spending a huge amount on the purchase of defense equipment.
What are the preparations to buy J-10CE aircraft?
The Bangladesh government is working on a plan to purchase J-10CE multirole fighter aircraft from China to modernize its air force. In August 2026, Information and Broadcasting Advisor to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Zahed Ur Rahman had said that a draft agreement has been prepared for the purchase of fighter planes and helicopters.
The proposal was sent to the concerned ministries and the Armed Forces Division for approval. According to media reports, Bangladesh is considering purchasing up to 24 J-10CE aircraft. However, the government has not confirmed the final number of aircraft, total price and delivery date. China has long been one of the major countries providing defense equipment to Bangladesh. In such a situation, this deal can further strengthen the military relations between the two countries.
What did Sheikh Hasina say on relations with India and China?
Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh should maintain balanced relations with all major countries instead of being dependent on any one country. He described India as Bangladesh's closest neighbor. At the same time, China was considered an important partner in the field of defense and development. Hasina said Bangladesh also has important relations with America, Japan, the Middle East, Gulf countries and African countries.
According to him, having friendship with one country should not mean enmity with another country. He said that Bangladesh's foreign policy should be based on national interests. The country should avoid becoming a part of the ongoing competition between big powers. Hasina claimed that her government, while maintaining close ties with India, had also continued cooperation with China and other countries.
Important statement given on India-Bangladesh relations
In the interview, Sheikh Hasina also expressed her views regarding the relations between India and Bangladesh. He expressed hope that his personal political circumstances would not hinder relations between the two countries. Hasina said that relations between India and Bangladesh are not limited to any one leader or political party. Both the countries have important interests related to history, trade, energy, security and border.
He refused to give any advice on India's foreign policy or Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that India is a sovereign country and will take decisions related to its policies on its own. Hasina also mentioned issues related to land boundary agreement, sharing of Ganga water and maritime boundary. According to him, both the countries can resolve their differences through dialogue and mutual respect.
Concern also expressed over the economic situation of Bangladesh
Sheikh Hasina expressed concern about the current economy of Bangladesh. Referring to the development that took place during his tenure, he claimed that at that time work was done to reduce poverty, increase the availability of electricity and improve health services. Hasina said that at present there are many challenges facing the country's banking sector and businessmen.
He also mentioned the economic projections of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). IMF has estimated Bangladesh's economic growth rate to be 3.2 percent for the financial year 2026-27. According to Hasina, in the weak economic situation it becomes even more important to properly assess the expenditure and requirement of big defense deals.
He said that Bangladesh's foreign policy should be based on the principle of friendship with all countries and no ill will towards anyone. This policy was also mentioned by his father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.