BAF to get more MI helicopters, combat training aircraft soon: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wednesday said five new MI-171 helicopters, nine basic training and 16 combat training aircraft would be added to Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) fleet soon to build the BAF as a strong and efficient force. Noting that the present government is pledge-bound to maintain the continuation of the development of the BAF, she also said: "In the golden jubilee of independence, we would establish Bangladesh Air Force as a strong and efficient force strategically Insha Allah by its further modernisation." Sheikh Hasina said the Awami League government always gave special importance to the development of Bangladesh Air Force and welfare of its members. "We are determined to maintain the continuation of the development," she said. In this connection, the Prime Minister mentioned that the present government has signed agreements for purchasing five new MI-171 helicopters, nine basic training aircraft, three transport training aircraft, two maritime search and rescue helicopters and 16 combat training aircraft, according to a news agency.