China’s J-10CE Deal with Bangladesh: India’s Strategic Challenge in South Asia

Bangladesh has reportedly agreed to buy 20 Chinese J-10CE fighter jets for $2.2 billion, indicating China’s expanding influence in South Asia’s defence space. For India, this development emphasizes the need to remain strategically vigilant regarding China’s ongoing military collaboration with neighboring states. While it is Bangladesh’s sovereign prerogative to modernize its air force, India’s strong defence relationships, growing indigenous fighter jet development and significant partnerships in the region make India a prominent balancer to Chinese influence.

The acquisition of J-10CEs to replace older and outdated F-7s demonstrates New Delhi’s need to reinforce security relationships between India and Bangladesh all while enhancing land border defence and intelligence sharing. India’s prominence in regional security organizations and an ongoing focus on domestic defence manufacturing promise to keep the strategic balance in South Asia skewed in its favour, ensuring peace and stability for the region amid China’s efforts to reshape regional balance.