Photo: Collected

DHAKA, July 2, 2026 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Navy today inducted five patrol boats received under Japan's Official Security Assistance (OSA) programme into its fleet. 

The boats were formally handed over to the Bangladesh Navy by representatives of the Japanese government at a ceremony held today, according to an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) press release.

Prime Minister’s Defence Adviser Brig Gen (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam attended the event as the chief guest while Japan's Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Shimada Tomoaki was present as the special guest. 

Members of the Japanese delegation and senior Bangladesh Navy officers were present at the ceremony. 

The release said the patrol boats will enhance coastal and riverine patrols, maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and the protection of Bangladesh's maritime resources and sovereignty.

Earlier in November 2023, the governments of Bangladesh and Japan signed a bilateral agreement for the procurement of five high-speed patrol boats. 

The project formally commenced following an exchange of notes in November 2023. Upon completion of the project activities, the boats arrived at Chattogram Port on February 6 this year. 

Under the supervision of Japanese experts, Bangladesh Navy personnel received the required training on the operation and maintenance of the boats at BNS Nirbhik. 

Each patrol boat measures 16.15 metres in length, 3.53 metres in width and 1.78 metres in depth. 

The boats are capable of operating at a maximum speed of 32 knots.

Designed for operations in shallow waters, the high-speed patrol boats will enable the Navy to conduct missions more efficiently in the country's rivers, bays and coastal areas, particularly in narrow and difficult waterways.

The project is expected to further strengthen the friendly relations between Bangladesh and Japan and promote cooperation in the fields of defence and technology.