Deputy Commander of the US Army Pacific Command Lieutenant General Joel B. Vowell paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh Army Chief of Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman. Photo: Bangladesh Army

DHAKA, March 26, 2025 (BSS) – Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army Pacific Lt. Gen. Joel P. Vowell visited Bangladesh from March 24 to 25 to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations.

The visit reinforced the US Army’s commitment to a robust partnership with the Bangladesh Army while underscoring shared security interests and ongoing collaboration, said a media note issued by US embassy here today. 

During his visit, Lt. Gen. Vowell engaged in high-level discussions with senior officials of the Bangladesh Armed Forces including Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman. 

Both sides explored Bangladesh's primary military challenges and areas where the U.S. could offer support.

A major focus of the visit was the upcoming "Exercise Tiger Lightning" scheduled for summer 2025. 

This joint military exercise between Bangladesh and US army named “Tiger Lightning” aims to enhance peacekeeping readiness and promote interoperability between the armed forces of both nations. 

The discussions also touched on the potential acquisition of U.S.-origin equipment to boost Bangladesh's military capabilities and further improve interoperability. 

Lt. Gen. Vowell lauded the professionalism of the Bangladesh military, emphasizing the crucial role of disciplined armed forces in maintaining regional stability.

The visit underscores the growing defense ties between Bangladesh and the United States, reflecting a shared commitment to regional security and cooperation, said the US embassy.