Locally made drone in Navy

It is very heartening to note the statement of the Chief of Navy, "Import of drone-like device earlier used to cost the Navy minimum Tk 15 million; now there are locally made drones costing Tk 0.1 million". The drone with camera may cost between Tk 0.2 to 0.3 million. So, the Navy can have more than ten drones with camera instead of having one drone.
However, was it wise for the navy to buy submarines, as reported in the media a few days ago? Our prime aim is self-defence and the submarine is basically a modern underwater vessel used for naval attacks, or landing on shores. So, it is more beneficial for us to have drone rather than submarine. For us, the 'Big Five' members in the Security Council, particularly the United Nations, should be looked upon as good friends. The role of the Foreign Ministry is more important for this than all our armed forces put together in protecting us from our close neighbouring countries, India, Myanmar and China.
We must have very good relations with China, the emerging Asian super power, and India, who helped us to gain independence. This should be our national policy. Along with this good ties with the Big Five in the Security Council should also be our objective. That should be our best security shield against any aggressive misadventure from adjacent neighbouring countries.
Considering the possibility of internal problems spilling over from Myanmar, in order to keep a watchful eye in our South-East border, the Army could deploy drones in this area, like what the Navy is doing foreshore for us.

Engr SA Mansoor
Dhaka
sam@dhakacom.com