RNS: Bangladesh is reportedly in negotiations with Turkish Defense Company Otokar Otomotiv ve Savunma Sanayi A.S. (Otokar) to purchase 26 Tulpar light tanks as part of its ongoing military modernization efforts. Deliveries of the advanced tanks are expected to begin in 2025, marking a significant enhancement to Bangladesh’s armored capabilities.
The Tulpar light tank, first introduced at the IDEF 2015 defense exhibition in Istanbul, is designed as a modular platform that can be adapted for various operational needs. It is equipped with the Leonardo HITFACT II turret, which can be armed with either a 105 mm or 120 mm smoothbore main gun, along with a coaxial machine gun. The turret system also offers options for additional weaponry, such as a remotely controlled weapon station (RCWS) or a pintle-mounted machine gun.
According to the different media reports, the discussions over the tank deal come amid increasing defense exports from Turkey, particularly to South Asia, where Turkey has strengthened military ties with countries like Pakistan, providing equipment including MILGEM corvettes and drones. This has drawn concern from India, which has voiced apprehensions over the evolving defense relations in the region.
At a recent India Ministry of External Affairs briefing, journalist Srinjoy Chowdhury inquired about the implications of Bangladesh’s potential purchase. In response, official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s longstanding support for a democratic, stable, and inclusive Bangladesh, emphasizing that India aims to build a constructive relationship with its neighbor based on mutual trust and sensitivity to each other’s concerns.
As Bangladesh moves forward with its defense strategy, the potential purchase of the Tulpar tanks signals a further shift in regional security dynamics, underscoring the growing defense collaboration between Bangladesh and Turkey.
