In recent years, with growing strategic competition among major powers the geopolitical and geostrategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific region has witnessed a significant shift. For that, reassessment of national security priorities and modernisation roadmap of Armed Forces has become a no evading reality. As countries in this geographic construct continue to enhance their military capabilities, Bangladesh must keep pace and strengthen its defence capabilities. For Bangladesh, modernization necessitates enhancing its defence capabilities in the context of growing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific region. This involves acquiring not only advanced weaponry and equipment but also operational readiness and improvement of training, intellectual capability and infrastructure. Hence, scholarly endeavours through rigorous academic research can contribute to developing a defence doctrine and a fitting strategic culture, which will help Bangladesh to navigate growing geostrategic competition in the Indo-Pacific Region. No prior research has been conducted on the modernisation of the Bangladesh Armed Forces, specifically focusing on the growing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific region. The research, therefore, aims to address this existing gap in the literature. Against the background, the objectives of the research are the following:
1. To reflect on the strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific region and make an assessment of Bangladesh’s preparedness and relevant policy measures to cope with the growing strategic competition in the region.
2. To understand, analyse and rationalise the need for modernization of Bangladesh Armed Forces as well as make an evaluation under the present plan for modernisation.
3. To identify the challenges of military modernisation for Bangladesh as well as to suggest policy measures/recommendations for the stakeholders.
