Bangladesh to Buy ANKA Drones and ATAK Attack Helicopters from Turkey Amid Erdogan’s Islamic Diplomacy

Ankara/Dhaka: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is actively strengthening ties with Muslim-majority countries in South Asia, using religion as a diplomatic tool. Following support to Pakistan during last year’s conflict with India, Turkey is now pursuing defense deals with Bangladesh.

According to reports, the Bangladesh Air Force is advancing plans to acquire eight T129 ATAK attack helicopters from Turkey. On 14 January, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan met with senior representatives from Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) at the Air Force Headquarters in Dhaka to discuss the details of the deal.

The TAI delegation included Burton Kurt, head of Corporate Marketing and Communications, and Military Attaché Colonel Himi Baris Yildiz, among others. Earlier, Turkey had also supplied Bayraktar TB-2 drones to the Maldives, reflecting Erdogan’s broader strategy to build influence in Islamic countries surrounding India.

Drone Procurement: ANKA UAVs

In addition to helicopters, Bangladesh is set to purchase ANKA series drones from Turkey. These medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are designed for reconnaissance, surveillance, and combat missions. Advanced variants such as the Anka-S include naval and ground operation capabilities, satellite communication, and sophisticated radar systems. The drones can stay airborne for up to 24 hours and operate at high altitudes, potentially enabling Bangladesh to monitor northeastern India.

ATAK Attack Helicopter Capabilities

The T129 ATAK attack helicopters are a joint product of TAI and AgustaWestland, designed for both the Turkish Land Forces and export markets. Constructed with an aluminum alloy frame, five-blade main rotor, two-blade tail rotor, and wheeled landing gear, the helicopters are optimized for hot climates. They are capable of offensive operations, reconnaissance, and rescue missions.

Turkey claims the helicopters feature stealth technology, integrated weapon systems, enhanced ballistic tolerance for missile threats, and night-attack capabilities. Additional features include laser rangefinders/designators, helmet-mounted night vision displays, and an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) for critical situations.

Erdogan’s defense outreach appears aimed at consolidating Turkey’s influence in the region while countering India’s strategic presence through military partnerships with neighboring Muslim-majority countries.