Navy to deploy 5,000 personnel, ships during polls: Admiral Nazmul

The Bangladesh Navy is preparing to deploy around 5,000 personnel with ships during the upcoming national election, and stands ready to handle any situation, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan said today.

He made the remark at the Winter President's Parade at the Bangladesh Naval Academy in Chattogram, where 31 midshipmen of the 2023-A batch, including two women, were commissioned after completing three years of military training.

The navy chief inspected the parade, received the salute, and joined dignitaries, serving and former military officials, diplomats, and parents of the new officers attending the ceremony.

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), Midshipman Syed Tahsin Ahmed received the Sword of Honour for best all-round performance.

Midshipman SM Abrar Obeid secured the Chief of Naval Staff Gold Medal for placing second.

After the parade, the newly commissioned officers took the oath to protect the country. Naval aviation aircraft and helicopters performed a special flypast.

Beginning his address, Admiral Nazmul paid tribute to freedom fighters and naval commandos whose sacrifice secured the country's independence.

He conveyed special greetings in the month of victory and thanked the veterans present.

The navy is procuring helicopters, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and different classes of naval vessels from friendly nations.

A UK-made hydrographic survey vessel is expected to join the fleet by 2026, and interceptor craft and patrol boats have already been added.

The navy chief highlighted last month's annual deep-sea exercise, which saw participation from naval ships, maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters, and the specialised SWADS team.

Various missiles were successfully fired, and for the first time, newly inducted unmanned aerial vehicles, sensors and datalink systems were used to support targeting.