Defence Adviser calls for space technologies for security, development
He also urged SPARRSO to contribute more actively to national food security by providing accurate satellite-based information on crop conditions, soil moisture, forests and water resources
Prime Minister's Defence Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam today (8 June) called for launching Bangladesh's own satellite and maximizing the use of space research and remote sensing technologies to strengthen national security, defence capabilities and disaster management.
During a visit to the Bangladesh Space Research and Remote Sensing Organization (SPARRSO) at Agargaon here, he directed the authorities concerned to take necessary initiatives for launching a national satellite and enhancing SPARRSO's role in border surveillance, strategic mapping and geospatial intelligence.
"Space research and remote sensing technologies have become integral to modern technological advancement and defence systems," he said, stressing the need for their wider and more effective application in safeguarding the country's interests.
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The Defence Adviser said the SPARRSO-generated satellite data and research outputs should be made more accessible for the operational and research activities of the Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force, according to a press release issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate this afternoon.
Highlighting the importance of technological advancement, he emphasized the incorporation of advanced satellite image-processing systems, artificial intelligence (AI) and modern remote sensing technologies to further strengthen SPARRSO's technical capabilities and human resources as well.
Referring to Bangladesh's vulnerability to natural disasters, Dr Shamsul Islam instructed the authorities to make more effective use of remote sensing technologies for early warning, monitoring and damage assessment of cyclones, floods and droughts.
He also urged SPARRSO to contribute more actively to national food security by providing accurate satellite-based information on crop conditions, soil moisture, forests and water resources.
The Defence Adviser further directed the organization to ensure timely sharing of relevant data and research findings with ministries and government agencies to support evidence-based policymaking and development planning.
Calling for the transformation of SPARRSO into a modern, self-reliant and internationally competitive institution, he said the organization should be capable of making direct contributions to national security and sustainable development.
Earlier, the Defence Adviser visited different divisions of SPARRSO and was briefed on the organization's research activities, innovations and ongoing projects, the release added.
On his arrival, Defence Secretary Md Ashraf Uddin and SPARRSO Chairman (Additional Secretary) Md Rashidul Islam welcomed him.
Senior officials of the Ministry of Defence and SPARRSO, among others, were present there.
