The future belongs to the warlords. Even if a nation does not intend to be an aggressor, it must possess the capability and readiness to defend itself. How capable is Bangladesh at this moment of safeguarding its sovereignty? Just like food, national security should now be considered a fundamental right. Not only land, but the skies and seas must also be enveloped in a protective shield. Strengthening air defense systems is no longer optional—it is a necessity. Going to sleep at night without this readiness is, in today’s context, sheer foolishness.
In 1971, it was proven that even with shared religious identity, West Pakistan turned out not to be a brother but a butcher. Had there been no geographical separation between East and West Pakistan, the consequences would have been unimaginable—something that became clearer during the India-Pakistan war of 2025. Even though India is considered Bangladesh’s closest neighbor and friend, its behavior post–August 5, 2024, was extremely aggressive and one-sided. In many cases, they remain inflexible. Tensions with neighboring Myanmar have been ongoing for decades. On paper, Bangladesh lags significantly behind Myanmar in terms of military capabilities.
If Bangladesh is ever thrust into a war imposed by any party, can its armed forces truly guarantee the safety of its citizens? In terms of military equipment, troop strength, modern technology, air security, maritime protection, or border defense—Bangladesh is not on par with its neighbors. The recent Israel-Iran war has redefined conventional warfare. A precise attack launched from 2,000 miles away can now obliterate an enemy. Thus, in modern warfare, the enemy may not be at the border—they may be thousands of miles away.
For its own security, Bangladesh should align itself with a major global power. The slogan “Friendship with all, malice towards none” has effectively prevented Bangladesh from becoming an intimate ally of anyone. Whether it be the American or Russian bloc, it is now crucial to structure the nation’s defense system under one of these umbrellas. Especially if Bangladesh fails to establish a sustainable air defense system, then its wealth and resources will inevitably attract vultures of many kinds. One cannot stand with everyone in the world; one must at least earn a place in their hearts.
In trying to appear friendly with all, Bangladesh has ended up being perceived as an adversary by some powerful states. No neighboring country should support a single person or a political party at the expense of their relationship with an entire nation. That is not diplomatic decorum.
Bangladesh’s armed forces are held in high esteem globally. Those who they serve in peacekeeping missions would never dream of opposing them. Yet, in the 54 years since independence, various governments have tried to manipulate the military for partisan agendas or foreign interests. Border guards have had the grim task of retrieving the bodies of fellow citizens killed by neighboring gunfire. Now, the time demands a modernization of the Air Force and Navy, and the development of a larger, well-trained force.
The world is becoming increasingly intolerant. To silence the threats of neighbors and to stand up against injustice, military capability is essential. Balance in arms is the cornerstone of peaceful coexistence. India’s firm stance against Pakistan or the protection offered by allies like the U.S. to South Korea against North Korea are direct results of military power. Only when both sides possess equal firepower can the world hope to survive a little longer.
If today any Muslim nation neighboring Israel possessed military strength equal to that of Israel, then Israel would not be the only “civilized” state in the Middle East. Yet, settlers continue to act like landlords over native households. The world reveres the powerful and tramples the meek. Bangladesh’s policymakers must now focus seriously on modernizing national security. There is no such thing as a permanent ally or eternal friendship—constant preparedness is key.
Bangladesh needs Rafales. Like shelter, it needs MiGs. We should possess missiles too. Strong ties must be built with nations capable of installing Iron Dome–like systems. We must nurture relations based on our own strategic needs.
Having weapons is not just about using them—it’s also a guarantee to keep others’ weapons sheathed. If a conflict arises with Myanmar or if neighboring countries exert pressure from any direction, can our military and defense equipment ensure the nation’s protection? Sovereignty cannot be safeguarded by bowing to others.
The ethics and humanity that once guided global affairs are now on the brink of collapse. Today, power dictates possession. Humans have turned into machines; those who order wars are monsters. No one should revel in the killing of women, children, or civilians.
To protect our people and our territory, enhancing military strength is now an urgent need. Chanting prayers against swords, or roaring slogans in response to missiles, is sheer madness. We must think realistically. Our brightest scientists must be deployed in strengthening national defense. India didn’t make A.P.J. Abdul Kalam a minister of education or culture—they made him the “Missile Man.” Only later, in recognition of his success, was he made President, even as he lay near death.
Bangladesh must not delay in facing reality. Bombs don’t bloom into flowers; even gunpowder demands blood from the air.
