Dhaka’s Chinese Radar Deployment Near India Sparks Security Worries

A significant security development is unfolding as Bangladesh reportedly prepares to deploy a Chinese air defence radar system at its Lalmonirhat Airbase, a location perilously close to India’s sensitive Siliguri corridor, or ‘Chicken’s Neck.’ Indian defence officials have voiced objections to this strategic placement. Evidence suggests that components for the advanced radar have arrived, and infrastructure, including a new hangar for fighter jets, is under rapid construction. This move has drawn the attention of Indian military intelligence, with a team having recently visited the area to assess the situation. The deployment of Chinese technology in such proximity to a vital Indian transit route is seen as a potential concern, with security analysts suggesting that Bangladesh could inadvertently become a platform for adversaries of India. Discussions between Bangladeshi and Chinese defense industry representatives regarding the procurement of missile systems and advanced radars have also been noted. The JSG-400 TDR radar, a sophisticated Chinese system, is reportedly part of this planned upgrade. This initiative aligns with Bangladesh’s broader efforts to modernize its air defence, as evidenced by the recent operationalization of another long-range surveillance radar in Bogura.