Bangladesh Eyes $2.3 Billion Deal for 20 Chinese J-10CE Fighter Jets
· World · India Today, Times of India
Bangladesh is moving closer to purchasing 20 Chinese J-10CE multirole fighter jets for $2.3 billion, one of its largest defence buys in years. PM Tarique Rahman's aide Zahed Ur Rahman cited the aircraft's performance during Pakistan's Operation Sindoor in May 2025 as a factor in the decision, claiming a J-10 had shot down an Indian Rafale. India has rejected Pakistan's account, and Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier has called the claim of three Rafales downed inaccurate. The effective per-aircraft cost comes to about $115 million, well above the jet's $62.7 million base price once training, logistics, VAT and support are included.
Why it matters
Bangladesh deepening defence ties with China — Pakistan's main arms supplier — directly affects India's strategic backyard, with New Delhi already disputing the Operation Sindoor narrative used to justify the deal.
Read the original report — India Today
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