Bangladesh Army Receives New Batch of Chinese VT-5 Light Tanks, Tightening Beijing’s Grip

Dhaka: The Bangladesh Army has received a new batch of VT-5 light tanks from China, according to Bangladeshi media reports and regional defense observers. The VT-5 tanks are equipped with modern 105 mm ammunition and are designed to penetrate heavily armored targets. This delivery highlights the growing defense cooperation between Bangladesh and China, which has become the country’s primary defense supplier over the past decade. China has supplied Bangladesh with naval ships, aircraft, armored vehicles, and missile systems.

VT-5: A Lightweight, Highly Mobile Tank

The VT-5 is a light main battle tank developed primarily for export customers requiring armored mobility in challenging terrain. It is optimized for operations in areas where heavier tanks face logistical or mobility challenges, including riverine regions, soft soil, and regions with limited infrastructure.

Advanced Features

Despite its light weight, the VT-5 features a stabilized 105 mm gun, a modern fire-control system, and modular armor protection. Its configuration allows it to deliver significant firepower while remaining highly maneuverable. The tank is supported by digital battlefield management systems and thermal imaging sights, enhancing its operational effectiveness.

Light tanks like the VT-5 are typically used for reconnaissance, rapid response, and fire support roles rather than direct engagements with heavily armored units. Their lighter weight allows deployment in areas and across bridges that conventional main battle tanks cannot traverse, offering commanders greater tactical flexibility.

Manufactured by NORINCO

The VT-5 (also known as Type 15 or ZTQ-15) is produced by Chinese defense company NORINCO (China North Industries Corporation). It was first unveiled at the Zhuhai Airshow in November 2016. The tank’s 105 mm rifled gun has a firing range of 3,000 meters and is capable of firing tandem HEAT (high-explosive anti-tank) warheads designed to defeat armored or reactive armor protection.

This delivery underscores Bangladesh’s growing reliance on China for modern defense capabilities and signals continued strategic alignment between the two countries in military technology.