**The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF)** (Bengali: বাংলাদেশ বিমান বাহিনী) is the aerial warfare branch of the **Bangladesh Armed Forces**. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding Bangladesh’s airspace, defending its sovereign territory, and providing air support to the **Bangladesh Army** and **Bangladesh Navy**. Let’s delve into some key details about the BAF:
1. **Foundation and History**:
– The BAF was officially formed on **28 September 1971**, during the **Bangladesh Liberation War**. It consisted of Bengali officers and airmen who had previously served in the Pakistan Air Force and defected to join the Bangladeshi side.
– Operation Kilo Flight, conducted by the BAF during the Liberation War, remains a significant chapter in its history.
2. **Roles and Responsibilities**:
– **Air Defense**: The BAF is primarily responsible for defending Bangladesh’s airspace against any threats.
– **Air Support**: It provides air support to ground forces (Army and Navy) during military operations.
– **Tactical and Strategic Transport**: The BAF plays a vital role in air transport and logistics within the country.
3. **Strength and Equipment**:
– The BAF comprises approximately **17,390 active duty personnel** and **2,800 civilians**.
– It operates a fleet of **156 aircraft**, including fighters, helicopters, transport planes, and reconnaissance aircraft.
– Notable aircraft include the **MIG-29**, **Chengdu F-7**, **C-130J**, and **Bayraktar TB2**.
4. **Motto and Anniversaries**:
– The BAF’s motto is: **”বাংলার আকাশ রাখিব মুক্ত”** (Free shall we keep the sky of Bangladesh).
– Key anniversaries include **Air Force Day** (28 September) and **Armed Forces Day** (21 November).
5. **Commanders**:
– The **Commander-in-Chief** is the President of Bangladesh.
– The current **Chief of Air Staff** is **Air Chief Marshal Shaikh Abdul Hannan**.
6. **Engagements and Peacekeeping**:
– Apart from its role in the Liberation War, the BAF has participated in various combat and humanitarian operations.
– It contributes to **United Nations peacekeeping missions** as well.
For more information, you can visit the [official Bangladesh Air Force website](https://baf.mil.bd/website/index.php) ¹². The BAF’s commitment to safeguarding the skies reflects its dedication to national security. 🇧🇩✈️
Source: Conversation with Bing, 4/21/2024
(1) Bangladesh Air Force – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh_Air_Force.
(2) Bangladesh Air Force. https://baf.mil.bd/website/index.php.
(3) BAF Recruitment Portal || Home – Bangladesh Air Force. https://joinairforce.baf.mil.bd/.
(4) linkedin.com. https://www.linkedin.com/company/bangladesh-air-force.
Please Subscribe my youtube channel and Like, Comment, Share: https://youtube.com/@BookDepot-cc1mq?si=1Ccb_Rw7lK-xjTdt
source