Since its founding in 1971, the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has been essential to Bangladesh's national security and defence. The BAF has developed into a contemporary air force with cutting-edge equipment and highly qualified people, with the goal of defending the nation's airspace sovereignty and assisting the Bangladesh Armed Forces in a variety of operations. Through strategic collaborations and acquisitions, the BAF has increased its capabilities over time, concentrating on improving its operations in aerial warfare, reconnaissance, and humanitarian aid. By taking part in both domestic and foreign operations and aiding in disaster relief activities, the force is dedicated to maintaining peace and stability in the area. 

We are privileged to feature an interview with Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, the only Top Gun air chief in Bangladesh. Renowned for his exceptional skills and passion for flying, including his experience with the MiG-29, he has established himself as a true professional in the field of aviation. Since joining the Bangladesh Air Force, Air Marshal Khan has played a vital role in strengthening the nation’s air defense capabilities. Now, as the Chief of Air Staff, he is at the forefront of modernizing air defense strategies, leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance operational readiness. 

Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan

Before we begin our interview with the Air Chief, let’s take a moment to explore an overview of his life and career.

Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, BBP, OSP, GUP, nswc, psc, assumed command of the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) on June 11, 2024, marking a significant milestone in a distinguished career.

A highly skilled aviator, Air Chief Marshal Hasan is a Qualified Flying Instructor and a "Distinguished Graduate" of the Pilot Instructor's Course at Randolph Air Force Base in the USA. He holds the prestigious Operational Fighter Category “A” for the MiG-29 and has logged flights on a variety of aircraft, including the F/A-18D and MiG-29. His notable achievements include commanding the MiG-29 Squadron and earning the "Top Gun" trophy for excellence in inter-squadron competitions.

His educational background includes graduation from the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) in Mirpur and the Air Force Command College in Beijing, China. He also completed the National Security and War Course at the National Defence University in Islamabad, Pakistan, obtaining a Master’s in National Security and War Studies.

Throughout his career, Air Chief Marshal Hasan has held various command and staff positions, overseeing major operational bases and serving as Deputy Commandant of the Bangladesh Air Force Academy. His international experience includes peacekeeping missions in Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In recognition of his service, he has received several honors, including the Air Force Medal 'BBP' and the Extraordinary Service Medal 'OSP'. Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys reading and playing golf. As he leads the BAF, his dedication to excellence and leadership continues to inspire future generation. 

In this interview, we will explore his insights and vision for the future of the Bangladesh Air Force, reflecting the dedication and expertise that make him an invaluable leader in the realm of aerial defense.

 Air Chief Air Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan takes over BAF command. Source: ISPR 

The following is an excerpt from the interview: 

Since our independence, Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has made significant strides and is now recognized as a professional force. Although progress has been slowed down in recent years by the impact of COVID-19 and shifting geopolitical dynamics, meanwhile we have focused on enhancing professional expertise through knowledge-driven modern training. We have made notable advancements in transforming from analog to digital training systems and are concentrating on self-reliance through indigenous capacity development. Keeping the national resource constraints and national aspiration in mind, which we are fully aware of, we are planning to induct modern aircraft/helicopter and sensors. We have also given significant focus on Research and Development (R&D) for indigenous capacity building to achieve self-reliance.

Our vision is “To build, train, maintain and operate an air force capable of projecting air power to protect our national interests”. In the coming years, we would like to focus on:

Strengthen operational effectiveness through continuous efforts aiming at Human Resource Development (HRD) and ensure readiness for combat.

We fully recognize the resource limitations our nation faces, but we cannot afford to compromise on our national sovereignty. As a result, we are focused on integrating modern platforms and systems to improve our operational capacity and address evolving challenges. 

Our objective is to find a balance between national resource constraints and the acquisition of advanced technology. We aim to develop indigenous equipment in a cost-efficient manner.

Man behind the machine holds greater importance than the machine itself. Therefore, our goal is to cultivate a knowledgeable, skilled workforce that keeps pace with technological advancements. Our Human Resource Development philosophy ensures that BAF members stay up to date with the ever-changing knowledge requirements.

In essence, our objective is to remain committed to maintaining operational excellence and readiness amidst evolving global challenges, remain focused on adopting high end technologies to achieve self-reliance, ensure human capacity building and streamline the overall development process.

 Air chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan visits the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the capital. Source: ISPR

Forces Goal-2030 is a military modernization initiative aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Bangladesh Armed Forces. It is a broad strategic plan focused on strengthening the armed forces. As part of this program, BAF has been advancing its modernization efforts with the goal of becoming a technologically advanced, well-trained, and well-equipped force. However, due to various challenges, BAF fell short in achieving the phase-wise modernization drive as originally outlined in Forces Goal 2030. Now, we are in the process of reassessing and redesigning the program. Our efforts are to diversify the sources. We must acknowledge that acquiring modern platforms is a costly endeavor, and as such, the successful implementation of Forces Goal-2030 requires a comprehensive government approach. It is crucial to view the program through the lens of national security needs. For that BAF is working closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful realization of Forces Goal-2030. 

As I have previously mentioned, the man behind the machine is more important than the machine itself. Although our modernization efforts have faced delays due to various factors, our commitment to developing a skilled, knowledge-based workforce remains a top priority. We have placed the highest emphasis on HRD, with training being a central focus. Our resource allocation has been strategically planned to support this objective.

BAF is currently transforming from an analog to a digital training system. We have introduced advanced trainer aircraft and helicopters, including Grob-120, Augusta-119, and L-140, all these are equipped with high end technology. Additionally, we have established several state-of-the-art flight simulators.

To stay at the forefront of technological advancements and modern warfare strategies, BAF has invested significantly in R&D. We actively participate in and organize various relevant seminars and symposiums to enhance our capabilities.

Bangladesh Air Force Academy (BAFA) and Airmen Training Institutes (ATI) are among the most prestigious institutions of their kind in Asia. BAF also collaborates with friendly air forces to foster the overall skill development of its personnel through joint exercises, training exchanges, and similar initiatives. Numerous personnel from allied nations receive training at our world-renowned institutions, such as BAFA, Command and Staff Training Institute (CSTI), ATI and Flight Safety Institute (FSI).

Aviation and Aerospace University, Bangladesh which is run by BAF is the only specialized public university of Bangladesh with a focus on aviation and aerospace sector. This is central in HRD to meet future aviation market demand.

BAF regularly participates in joint exercises with both global and regional partners, including events like Pacific Airlift Rally, Balance Buffalo, Blue Flag, and Exercise Cope South. Preparation for Exercise Pacific Angel is going on. During these exercises we not only practice how to handle conventional security challenges, but also, we practice and share knowledges on handling Non-Traditional Security (NTS) issues. Additionally, we organize Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) programs, where specialists from friendly air forces visit our Squadrons/Units to share their knowledge and expertise both theoretically and practically. Our members also participate in different exercises arranged by our friendly foreign air forces. All these exercises and SMEE programs have enhanced our operational knowledge, interoperability and tactical capabilities, while also fostering international goodwill. Such collaborations are essential for maintaining readiness in the face of contemporary challenges.

Jointness, integration, and interoperability among the sister services are essential, both in peacetime and during times of crisis or conflict. In today’s era, it is simply not possible for a single service to win a war on its own. Modern warfare presents unpredictable challenges, and joint operations provide the flexibility and adaptability needed to address a wide array of scenarios, whether in air superiority, ground combat, or maritime operations. To ensure the comprehensive defence and security of Bangladesh, BAF works closely with the Bangladesh Army (BA) and Bangladesh Navy (BN). Under the guidance of Armed Forces Divisions (AFD) we are developing the Joint Doctrines in different fields. BAF gives significant emphasis on joint exercises. We also provide support to other services both in their day to day operations and also during their exercises. Even during BAF exercises, we insist participation of other service elements. At present it is crucial to understand that without a true appreciation for the importance of jointness, victory in modern warfare is unattainable. 

Air Force is inherently a technology-driven force, and the success of air operations relies heavily on the effective use of advanced technology. BAF carefully selects modern equipment and technology to enhance its capabilities. We have already integrated several platforms equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the recent introduction of advanced UAVs. Additionally, we have incorporated sophisticated sensors and weapon systems into our air defence networks. Furthermore, we are actively pursuing new platforms to meet evolving operational needs. These advancements have enhanced our surveillance, operational efficiency, and decision-making capabilities. Our research and development efforts also aim to find cost-effective alternatives to expensive systems acquired from abroad.

As a technology-driven force, the induction of modern platforms and their maintenance always present significant challenges for any air force. The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) faces similar concerns, particularly with the added complexities of COVID-19 and an unstable geopolitical environment, which have made it increasingly difficult to maintain our existing fleets and equipment. To address this, we are actively seeking support from our friendly nations. Another key challenge is managing modernization efforts within the constraints of national resources, as budget limitations are a constant issue. We are tackling these challenges through strategic equipment acquisition planning, the development of indigenous capabilities, and a focus on enhancing our human resource development. 

Air Vice Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan delivered the closing speech at the end of the joint exercise between the Bangladesh Air Force and the United States Pacific Air Forces. Photo: Net

Defence Policy 2018 of Bangladesh states the strategic priorities as to how the military forces should approach for development. Our future plan for modernization and expansion is closely linked with the guidelines. Our capacity modernization drive is planned based on Forces Goal-2030. Due to numerous reasons this development process has been slowed down, as such our priority is to acquire modern platforms and sensors. Additionally, we are also working on expanding airbases and enhancing our air defence network to address future requirements. These actions will ensure that we maintain a leading edge in both capability and preparedness.

As a key element of the Instrument of National Power, the BAF plays a crucial role in maintaining regional security and promoting peace. We remain vigilant 24/7, monitoring Bangladesh’s airspace through our air defence network, with our air defence fighters always on alert. 

BAF is the first responder for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, and our helicopters are on standby around the clock for CASEVAC/MEDEVAC. On numerous occasions, the BAF has conducted Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions both within and outside Bangladesh. For example, in 2023 after the devastating earthquake in Turkiye and Syria, BAF has carried out HADR mission with her C-130J transport aircraft. Similarly, during COVID-19 pandemic, with the C-130J aircraft BAF has conducted number of overseas air support operations in countries like China, Maldives, South Korea, USA, etc. to support the government initiatives to handle the deadliest pandemic. 

In fact, with the induction of  C-130J aircraft BAF has attained the “Global Reach” and now we remain ready to stand beside our friendly nations during time of crisis on order from Bangladesh Government. Our support to friendly nations during times of crisis has been widely recognized and appreciated. Furthermore, as per Article 25 of Bangladesh Constitution, our country is promised to play an important role for promotion of international peace, security and solidarity. In this aspect BAF is playing an important role in the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO). 

Today BAF has made our nation proud by displaying professional excellence in UN mission areas. The professional competency of our members particularly in aviation sector has been repeatedly acknowledged. These efforts highlight our commitment not only to national security but also to global peace and stability. Our aim is to continue serving as a reliable partner in international peace initiatives while ensuring the safety and security of our region.