Bangladesh and Japan have signed an agreement establishing a legal framework for the transfer of defence equipment and technology, marking a significant step in expanding bilateral security cooperation amid evolving regional dynamics in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
The agreement, which came into force on February 3, outlines procedures governing the approval, use and oversight of defence equipment and technology transfers between the two countries. Officials said the framework includes safeguards to prevent unauthorized third-party transfers and ensures that all exchanges remain within agreed purposes.
According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the arrangement will apply to projects jointly identified by both governments, including initiatives linked to international peace and security. The agreement places Bangladesh among a select group of countries with which Japan has formal defence technology transfer arrangements, reflecting Tokyo’s gradual shift toward strengthening security partnerships beyond its traditional post-war restrictions on arms exports.
For Bangladesh, the pact opens access to advanced defence technologies and potential collaboration in research and development, supporting its ongoing military modernisation efforts. Analysts view the agreement as part of Dhaka’s broader strategy to diversify defence partnerships while responding to changing regional security challenges.
The agreement is also expected to support Japan’s defence industrial base while enhancing strategic cooperation through expert exchanges, training initiatives and future joint security programmes, with both sides emphasising alignment with international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
