Navy wraps up annual sea drill with successful missile launch in Bay of Bengal

The Bangladesh Navy has wrapped up its annual sea exercise with a successful missile launch in the Bay of Bengal, marking the conclusion of a five-day operational drill that brought together a wide range of naval assets and personnel.

The closing phase of the exercise, held today (30 November), was witnessed from BNS Khalid Bin Walid by advisers to the interim government's home, law, environment and climate, water resources, and housing ministries at the invitation of Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hassan. Senior military and civil officials were also present, according to a press release.

The drill involved an extensive fleet composed of frigates, corvettes, offshore patrol vessels, minesweepers, patrol craft, and missile boats. 

Maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters, and specialised forces squads joined the at-sea operations. The Air Force, Coast Guard, and other maritime agencies took part directly or provided support.

The Navy tested fleet manoeuvres, surveillance of key sea areas, logistics operations, and coastal facility defence. On the final day, units carried out missile firing from naval vessels, shoulder-launched surface-to-air missile engagements, anti-air rapid fire, rocket-propelled depth charge exercises, UAV operations, and helicopter-borne visit, board, search and seizure drills by naval commandos.

According to the Navy, the annual exercise aims to sharpen readiness to protect the country's maritime sovereignty, safeguard marine resources, secure shipping routes, counter smuggling and piracy, and strengthen coastal biodiversity protection.

Guests at the closing session praised the professionalism and discipline of participating officers and sailors and noted the Navy's growing role in both maritime security and the national economy.