‘Tiger Lightning’ drill reflects growing Bangladesh-US defence cooperation: Chargé d’affaires Jacobson

The joint military drill Tiger Lightning stands as a symbol of the deepening cooperation between Bangladesh and the United States, reflecting shared aspirations for security, peace, and prosperity in the Bay of Bengal and the Indo-Pacific, US Chargé d'affaires to Bangladesh Tracey Ann Jacobson said today (30 July).

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the month-long exercise at Jalalabad Cantonment in Sylhet, Jacobson noted, "Through this initiative, US soldiers have the opportunity to train alongside members of the Bangladesh Army, who are globally recognised for their exceptional peacekeeping capabilities."

She emphasised that the bond between the two nations is being built person-to-person—Bangladeshi to American—"hand in hand, heart to heart."

Highlighting Bangladesh's significant contribution to UN peacekeeping, she remarked that the country consistently ranks among the top three troop-contributing nations and leads in quality, with 1,800 female personnel currently serving in missions worldwide.

Jacobson also noted that Tiger Lightning forms part of a broader series of joint drills. While Tiger Shark, involving the Navy and Special Forces, is currently underway, Pacific Angel with the Air Force is scheduled for later this year.

The exercise brought together 100 personnel from the Bangladesh Army's Para-Commando unit and 66 members of the Nevada National Guard under the US Army.

Maj Gen ASM Ridwanur Rahman, GOC of the 17th Infantry Division, was also present at the ceremony. The event opened with a welcome address by Brigadier General Imrul Hasan, head of the Para-Commando Brigade.

A documentary showcasing the training was screened, followed by certificate distribution among participants.

US Major Wistisen and Bangladesh Army Major Mahmudul Hasan later shared insights from their training experience.

The event concluded with a photo session and the signing of the visitors' book by Jacobson.