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Bangladesh is reportedly seeking short-range ballistic missiles from Pakistan to strengthen its defense against potential Indian aggression, according to an Indian media report. The Indian Defense Research Wing (IDRW) claims that Bangladesh has approached Pakistan for the Abdali Missile, a tactical missile with a range of 400 kilometers, to bolster its deterrence capabilities.
The report suggests that Pakistan may consider the request for two primary reasons: first, to enhance its regional influence by supporting Dhaka, which has shown increasing opposition to New Delhi; and second, because the Abdali missile’s limited range makes it unlikely to disrupt the strategic balance between Pakistan and India. The missile, designed primarily for battlefield use, is aimed at defending against Indian strikes along Bangladesh’s extensive border with India.
However, the report also notes that fulfilling Bangladesh’s request could face challenges due to international weapons control systems, particularly the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which governs missile transfers and could influence Islamabad’s final decision.
While the Abdali missile is designed for short-range, tactical engagements, experts suggest that it could still pose a threat to India’s northeastern states, given its ability to target major cities within that region. Developed by Pakistan’s Space Research Commission (SUPARCO), the missile system is valued for its rapid response capabilities, giving Pakistan a strategic edge in local conflicts.
If Bangladesh successfully acquires the Abdali missiles, it could significantly alter the security landscape in South Asia. Experts warn that the deployment of these missiles in Bangladesh would serve as a psychological deterrent to India, potentially sparking an arms race in the region. This development might prompt India to further enhance its missile defense systems and deploy more aggressive military measures.
The move is also seen as a response to India’s growing military presence near the Bangladesh border and its expanding ballistic missile defense capabilities. Tensions between the two countries have escalated in recent years, particularly after the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The situation has been further complicated by rising communal violence in Bangladesh, particularly against Hindus, souring Bangladesh-India relations.
