DHAKA, July 20, 2025 (Khondaker Abdul Motin, Editor) — The Armed Forces of Bangladesh and the United States military are set to deepen their defense partnership this summer through a series of joint military exercises and a new technology program to improve shared security goals.
“These efforts help make both Bangladesh and the United States stronger, and the region safer,” said a media note from the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka.
Exercise Tiger Lightning
For the fourth year in a row, the Bangladesh Army and the U.S. Army Pacific will take part in Exercise Tiger Lightning. This joint training will focus on:
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Counterterrorism
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Peacekeeping
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Jungle warfare
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Medical evacuations
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Countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
The exercises are designed to improve both armies’ readiness through realistic training.
Exercise Tiger Shark 2025
Part of the ongoing Flash Bengal series, Exercise Tiger Shark will involve the Special Forces of both nations. First held in 2009, this exercise includes:
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Patrol boat handling
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Small arms shooting practice
The training is intended to boost the skills of Bangladesh’s Special Warfare Diving and Salvage (SWADS) team and the Para Commando Brigade in crisis response situations. A key highlight will be both sides using U.S. military equipment during the drills.
Exercise Pacific Angel
Pacific Angel will be held in Bangladesh for the fourth time. A central focus will be on the C-130 aircraft, which are essential for:
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Airdrops during disaster response
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Air mobility missions
This exercise will also cover Search and Rescue (SAR) operations and aeromedical evacuations, improving Bangladesh’s ability to manage humanitarian crises.
Launch of the RQ-21 Program
The U.S. is also helping Bangladesh’s Army and Navy launch a new Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) program using the RQ-21 Blackjack drones.
A joint team of Army and Navy personnel will operate the system. This will help Bangladesh:
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Monitor its maritime zones
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Secure its borders
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Support international peacekeeping operations
The initiative marks a major step in strengthening defense technology and cooperation between the two countries.