The United States and Bangladesh will deepen their military cooperation this summer through a series of joint exercises and the rollout of new capabilities aimed at enhancing regional stability and shared security interests.
According to a press release from the U.S. Embassy, the two nations will conduct three joint military exercises—Tiger Lightning, Tiger Shark 2025, and Pacific Angel—along with the launch of the RQ-21 Blackjack Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) program.
This collaboration reflects the countries’ long-standing defense partnership and shared commitment to regional peace and readiness.
Exercise Tiger Lightning, now in its fourth year, will see the Bangladesh Army and U.S. Army Pacific engage in realistic training to build operational readiness. Focus areas will include counterterrorism, peacekeeping, jungle warfare, medical evacuations, and counter-IED operations.
Exercise Tiger Shark 2025, part of the broader Flash Bengal series, brings together Special Forces from both countries. Ongoing since 2009, this year's edition will involve combat training in patrol boat handling and small arms marksmanship. The exercise will enhance capabilities within Bangladesh’s Special Warfare Diving and Salvage unit and the Para Commando Brigade. A notable feature will be the joint use of U.S. military equipment by both forces.
Exercise Pacific Angel—also in its fourth iteration in Bangladesh—will highlight the role of C-130 aircraft in humanitarian assistance, including disaster response airdrops and air mobility. It will also strengthen Bangladesh’s search and rescue (SAR) and aeromedical evacuation operations.
In a significant development, the RQ-21 Blackjack UAS program is set to launch in partnership with the Bangladesh Army and Navy. The initiative will enable a joint Bangladesh regiment to operate the U.S.-provided unmanned aerial system. The new capability is expected to enhance maritime domain awareness, border security, and support peacekeeping missions.
The exercises and technology transfer underscore the growing strategic defense ties between Washington and Dhaka, aiming to build stronger bilateral forces and contribute to a safer Indo-Pacific region.
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