Bangladesh, UK boost defence ties with vessel sales deal

The sale of the HMS Enterprise highlights the UK’s continued partnership with Bangladesh in enhancing maritime security and contributing to a prosperous, stable, free and open Indo-Pacific and Bay of Bengal, said the British High Commission in Dhaka on Sunday.

The signing ceremony was held at Bangladesh Navy Headquarters following extensive technical engagement between the Bangladesh Navy, the UK Ministry of Defence and Royal Navy.

The vessel, known for its distinguished service in survey operations, humanitarian support, and disaster‑response missions, will now help strengthen Bangladesh’s maritime security and regional stability efforts, said the UK government.

It will also provide hydrographic, oceanographic and scientific research capability and offer significant research opportunities for Bangladeshi universities.

From the Bangladesh side, Admiral M. Nazmul Hassan, Chief of Naval Staff, and Rear Admiral Jahangir Adil Samdany, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Logistics), were present.

The signing ceremony was also attended by the British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke; Defence Attaché at the British High Commission Dhaka, Commander Lee Norton; and UK Ministry of Defence Commercial Officer Nanise Qalobulawasaikabara.  

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said the sale of this survey vessel reflects the deep trust and strong cooperation between the United Kingdom and Bangladesh, reports UNB.

"HMS Enterprise served the Royal Navy with distinction, and we are proud to see her begin a new chapter supporting Bangladesh’s maritime capability and our shared commitment to a secure and prosperous Bay of Bengal," she said.