Future Modernization Program
BAF has an ongoing modernization program that includes plans to introduce 20–32 4+ generation fighter aircraft. The chief of air staff of the Bangladesh Air Force, Air Marshal Shah Mohammad Ziaur Rahman revealed this long-term procurement plan in Defense IQ 2011 International Fighter Aircraft Conference in London. According to him, the aircraft that are being evaluated are primarily the Mig-29CMT and the Lockheed Martin F-16, with the Sukhoi Su-30 and SAAB JAS-39 Gripen also in evaluation. The order should materialize within 10–15 years according to him. In the meantime one squadron of stop-gap light fighter Chengdu F-7BGI have been ordered and are to be delivered in 2012. These aircraft are of a new variant and are equipped with advanced avionics that will include HOTAS Contol, three MFD display's and a HUD. The aircraft will also be equipped with both air-to-air and GPS guided munitions. The existing Mig-29 in inventory will also be upgraded to Mig-29SMT standard. The air force will also acquire a squadron of Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) to replace the existing L-39 inventory.
The Bangladesh Air Force is signing a contract with Russia for 8 Mig-29 M2, 16 Yak-130 AJT and YAK-152s to replace her age old fleet of PT-6's. After two years of receiving these aircraft Bangladesh Airforce will introduce SU-30MK2s.
May 22, 2012 – The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Bangladesh to provide regeneration, overhaul, modifications, and logistics support for 4 Lockheed Martin C-130Es and associated parts, equipment, and training for an estimated cost of $180 million.
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