Dhaka, London to boost defence and tech ties, HMS Enterprise deal by year-end

Bangladesh and the United Kingdom are moving to strengthen their defence and technology partnership, with discussions focused on Bangladesh’s proposed purchase of the HMS Enterprise, a research and survey vessel, and plans to acquire offshore patrol vessels from the UK. 

Officials said the HMS Enterprise deal is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

The development came during a high-level meeting between UK Trade Envoy Rosie Winterton and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Thursday, where both sides also explored broader collaboration in defence technology, clean energy, digital transformation, and innovation.

Professor Yunus outlined the government’s reform measures aimed at enhancing transparency, improving investment conditions, and ensuring regulatory stability. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding a national election in early February, describing it as “the first genuinely democratic vote in many years.”

“What happened in the last 16 years was a mockery of an election,” the Chief Adviser said, adding that he plans to return to his previous role after the polls. 

He also discussed efforts to combat misinformation and emphasised the importance of international cooperation, noting that UK support would be vital in tackling this growing challenge.

Envoy Rosie Winterton welcomed Bangladesh’s recent reforms in business regulations, customs, and revenue systems, noting that they have improved investor confidence. 

She highlighted the potential for deeper ties in education, aviation, maritime capability, and green technology, and commended Professor Yunus’s inclusive leadership at the United Nations General Assembly, particularly his initiative to engage political party leaders in policy discussions.

The meeting was attended by Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke, Senior Secretary and SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and Director General (East Europe and CIS Wing) Md Mosharaf Hossain.

Officials said the talks reflect a growing strategic alignment between Dhaka and London, focusing on defence capability, technology transfer, and sustainable economic cooperation.