Govt committed to developing strong, tech-driven military: PM

The government is committed to developing a strong, modern and tech-based military in keeping with global advancements and changing geopolitical realties, said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Army Headquarters in the capital on Sunday.

In this connection, the government has already initiated works for preparing a framework on developing and modernising the armed forces, the PM said while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Army Headquarters Selection Board-2026.

To keep up with the global trends, the government plans to equip the armed forces with advanced drone technology, satellite surveillance, cyber capabilities and stronger electronic warfare mechanisms, he added.

"Our vision for future force development prioritises capability over numbers, effectiveness alongside expansion, technological innovation over platform acquisition, and tri-service joint efforts rather than single force-centric development," Tarique Rahman, also the chairman of the ruling BNP, said.

Tarique said that by following the vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the present government will formulate a modern policy under which the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, civil administration, industry, technology, educational institutions, and the country's people will work together as part of an integrated national security framework.

"The objective of this policy is not to promote war, but to build a well-prepared, stable, and self-reliant armed force capable of responding to any potential crisis, aggression, or disaster while safeguarding the country's sovereignty, independence, and national interests," he added.

He said, "Bangladesh is currently facing complex and multidimensional security challenges, including maritime and border security, transnational and cross-border threats, cyber and information security, disaster response, and humanitarian assistance.

"Security today is no longer limited to protecting territorial borders. It also encompasses cyberspace, information warfare, drone technology, artificial intelligence, and regional geopolitical competition," he said.

The Prime Minister said the government's key priorities for strengthening the armed forces include building a disciplined, modern, and capable military, enhancing integrated defence planning, formulating time-befitting defence policies and strategies, promoting the domestic defence industry, and reinforcing democratic civil-military relations.