First Bangladeshi-Made Training Aircraft Unveiled: BAF’s BBT-2 Takes Flight
In a historic moment, Bangladesh takes a leap towards self-reliance in aviation as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurates the first training aircraft manufactured entirely within the country. Named in honor of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) proudly presented the Bangabandhu Basic Trainer (BBT) aircraft during the prestigious Military Hardware Display 2024 at Tejgaon Airfield of BAF Base Bashar.
Photo Source: ISPR
The ceremony witnessed a jubilant atmosphere as Air Chief Marshal Shaikh Abdul Hannan warmly welcomed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, emphasizing the monumental achievement of domestic high-end manufacturing in the aerospace sector.
Initiated under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Hasina and executed through the collaborative efforts of BSMRAAU (Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Aviation and Aerospace University), the journey towards indigenous aircraft production began in January 2020. This ambitious endeavor was propelled by the unwavering belief that Bangladesh possesses the capability to produce world-class aircraft.
The fruition of this vision came to light with the successful maiden flight of the first Trainer Aircraft, BBT-1, on 12 February 2023. Building upon this milestone, the advanced model BBT-2 was meticulously crafted to meet specific training requirements, boasting the expertise of BAF’s engineers and technicians in aviation and aerospace maintenance and operations.
On 26 October 2023, the BBT-2 soared through the skies on its inaugural flight, marking a monumental achievement in Bangladesh’s aviation history. Notably, these aircraft feature side-by-side pilot seating and are equipped with modern instrument parameter monitoring systems, ensuring utmost safety and efficiency in flight operations.
With a top speed of 250 km/h and a maximum take-off weight of 500 kg, the BBT-2 showcases Bangladesh’s prowess in aerospace engineering and manufacturing. This significant milestone not only elevates the capabilities of the Bangladesh Air Force but also sets the nation on the path towards self-reliance in military hardware design and production.
Prime Minister Hasina, in her address, expressed her pride in Bangladesh’s technological advancement and reiterated her commitment to realizing the vision of a Smart Bangladesh. The ceremony, graced by esteemed military and civilian officials, symbolized a watershed moment in Bangladesh’s journey towards achieving excellence in the global aerospace arena.
As the first Bangladeshi-made training aircraft takes flight, the nation stands poised to embrace a future marked by innovation, self-sufficiency, and unparalleled excellence in aviation.
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