Financial and Diplomatic Risks Mount for Bangladesh Due to Stalled Russian Helicopter Deal

Bangladesh is facing challenges due to a troubled helicopter deal with Russia. The Awami League’s purchase of two helicopters has become a source of difficulty due to US sanctions. Nearly Tk 4 billion was allocated for the transaction, with a significant payment already made. The helicopters were planned for counter-terrorism purposes and to support police efforts in remote areas. The US sanctions, targeting the Russian Helicopters company, have halted the process. The situation presents a difficult choice between accepting financial losses by terminating the agreement, or risking straining diplomatic relations with the United States by importing the helicopters. The helicopters are currently stored in Russia, accumulating ongoing maintenance expenses. The Foreign Ministry seeks to explain to the United States that the helicopters will be used for civilian purposes, particularly in disaster management, aiming to avoid negative consequences for the relationship between the two countries.