Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said two submarines would be inducted in Bangladesh Navy by 2015 to build it as a “three dimensional” force.
“A process for induction of two submarines in the naval force has been finalised as part of the present government’s firm determination and commitment to turn Bangladesh Navy into a three-dimensional force,” she said, adding that the two submarines would be inducted to the naval fleet by 2015.
The premier also said work on setting up the country’s biggest naval base in Rabnabad area in Patuakali has already started.
Hasina made the comments while addressing the commissioning of two new frigates in Bangladesh Navy at BNS Naval Base Isa Khan yesterday.
The two new frigates – Abu Bakar and Ali Haider – procured from China have replaced two old British frigates.
Earlier on her arrival at the BNS Naval Base Isa Khan, the prime minister was received by Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral M Farid Habib and Commander of the Chittagong Naval Zone Rear Admiral M Akhter Habib.
Cabinet members, PM’s security adviser, parliament members, the chiefs of Bangladesh Army and Air Force, diplomats and senior civil and military officials were present.
The prime minister said the government with utmost importance has started the work on increasing necessary infrastructure for the navy including air base along with raising its war fleet.
“The issue of construction of a submarine base is under process,” she said, adding that the Khulna Shipyard is building two container ships with the funding of the navy, which would play an active role in the country’s economy.
The prime minister put emphasis on an efficient, modern and balanced “three dimensional navy” to ensure security of the maritime area for the national economic development.
Hasina said most of the people of the country are not aware of the importance of sea and its resources.
“Our naval force and coast guards are ensuring security of the maritime boundary by encountering various natural adversities. So despite economic constraints, the necessity of an efficient, modern and balanced three-dimensional naval force is undeniable,” she said.
Earlier, the prime minister handed over the commissioning orders of the two warships to the commanding officers and formally unveiled the plaques of the ships.
She also boarded the largest BN ship Samudra Joy, which was procured from the United States recently, and BNS Abu Bakar and witnessed different war equipment.
Source: bdnews24
