Aviation News – Bangladesh has ordered six T129 ATAK attack helicopters from Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), marking the country’s first acquisition of dedicated attack rotorcraft and a major step in modernising its air combat capabilities.
The deal came to light following a courtesy visit on 13 January 2026 by TAI’s Director of Flight Test to Dhaka, where he met Lieutenant General SM Kamrul Hasan, Principal Staff Officer of the Bangladesh Armed Forces Division (AFD). The meeting highlighted growing defence cooperation between Bangladesh and Türkiye, particularly in aerospace and military aviation.
The T129 ATAK is a twin-engine, tandem-seat attack helicopter developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries to perform close air support, armed reconnaissance, and anti-armor missions. Designed for hot-and-high environments, the platform provides the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) with enhanced firepower, precision strike capability, and battlefield survivability compared to its existing helicopter fleet.
A senior Bangladeshi defence official said the acquisition reflects a strategic shift. “The T129 ATAK will significantly strengthen our rotary-wing combat capability and improve operational readiness in complex security environments,” the official noted.
Looking ahead, the purchase positions Bangladesh among a growing group of countries adopting Turkish-built military aviation platforms. It may also open the door to expanded training, maintenance cooperation, and potential follow-on orders as the BAF builds experience with dedicated attack helicopters.
The introduction of the T129 ATAK represents a milestone for the Bangladesh Air Force, filling a long-standing capability gap. As deliveries progress, the helicopters are expected to play a central role in modern air-ground operations and regional defence readiness.
Photo Rob Vogelaar
