The Bangladesh Army (Bengali: বাংলাদেশ সেনাবাহিনী, romanized: Bānlādēśa sēnābāhinī) is the land warfare branch and the largest component of the Bangladesh Armed Forces. The primary mission of the Army is to provide necessary forces and capabilities to deliver the Bangladeshi government’s security and defense strategies while defending the nation’s territorial integrity against external threats. Control of personnel and operations is administered by the Army Headquarters in Dhaka. The Bangladesh Army is also constitutionally obligated to assist the government and its civilian agencies during times of national emergency, commonly referred to as “aid to civil administration.”
Early History
The martial tradition of Bengal has deep roots, tracing back to the armies of ancient kings and their chiefs, known as Senapati or Mahasenapati. These early forces were composed of infantry, cavalry, war elephants, and boats. The Bengal Sultanate, established by Muslim rulers, further strengthened military organization, introducing well-disciplined armies. During the Mughal rule, cannons and artillery were introduced to Bengal.
Under British colonial rule, Bengal became a crucial strategic and trading hub in South Asia. The British defeated the Bengal Army of Nawab Siraj-ud-daullah in the Battle of Plassey in 1757 and later, Nawab Mir Qasim at the Battle of Buxar in 1764. This led to the formation of the British Indian Army, with Bengal contributing significantly to military and police recruitment. The Bengal Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 saw recruitment shifts, and during World War I and II, Bengali soldiers served in various capacities, including the Indian Army Pioneer Corps.
Pakistan Period
Upon the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the newly formed East Bengal Regiment was established under the leadership of Captain Abdul Gani. This regiment laid the foundation for what would become the Bangladesh Army. The first battalion of the East Bengal Regiment was raised on 15 February 1948, and the second battalion followed on 7 February 1949. By the time of the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, a total of eight battalions had been formed.
Bangladesh Liberation War
The Bangladesh Liberation War began in March 1971 following the crackdown by the Pakistan Army in East Pakistan. Bengali soldiers revolted, leading to the formation of the Bangladesh Army. The Bangladesh Army Sector Commanders Conference, held from 11 to 17 July 1971, was crucial in organizing and strategizing the war effort. This conference led to the division of Bangladesh into 11 sectors, each commanded by a Sector Commander.
The war effort was divided into three brigades:
- K Force: Under Major Khaled Mosharraf, comprising the 4th, 9th, and 10th East Bengal Regiment.
- S Force: Under Major K M Shafiullah, comprising the 2nd and 11th East Bengal Regiment.
- Z Force: Under Major Ziaur Rahman, comprising the 1st, 3rd, and 8th East Bengal Regiment.
Post-1971: Emergence of the Bangladesh Army
After the war, personnel from the Mukti Bahini were integrated into the Bangladesh Army. In 1974, the Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA) was established in Comilla, marking the beginning of formal officer training in Bangladesh. The passing out parade of the first BMA short course took place on 11 January 1975. The President Guard Regiment (PGR) was also established in 1975.
In the years following independence, the Bangladesh Army expanded and modernized its structure, including the formation of various corps and regiments. Despite challenges and political tensions, the Army has played a vital role in national defense and international peacekeeping efforts.
Conclusion
The Bangladesh Army has a rich and diverse history, evolving from ancient martial traditions to becoming a modern and professional force. Its contributions during the liberation war and its ongoing role in international peacekeeping reflect its commitment to peace and security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is the current chief of the Bangladesh Army?
A: General Waker-Uz-Zaman, OSP, SGP, psc. On June 23, 2024, he took on the role of Chief of Army Staff for the Bangladesh Army.
Q: Who is the CAS of Bangladesh?
A: General Waker-Uz-Zaman, OSP, SGP, psc. On June 23, 2024, he took on the role of CAS (Chief of Army Staff) for the Bangladesh Army.
Q: What does CAS means in Bangladesh Army?
A: Chief of Army Staff
Q: How powerful is the Bangladesh Army?
A: The Bangladesh Army is part of the third-largest defense budget in South Asia and is ranked as the 37th strongest military force globally. It is also considered the third most powerful military force in South Asia, reflecting its significant capability and strategic importance in the region.
Q: When was the Bangladesh Army established?
A: The Bangladesh Army was officially established on March 26, 1971, during the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Q: What is the mission of the Bangladesh Army?
A: The mission of the Bangladesh Army is to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bangladesh. In addition to its primary mission, the Bangladesh Army is also assisting the civilian government during times of national emergency.
Q: What is the motto of the Bangladesh Army?
A: “In War, In Peace, We are everywhere for our Nation” (“সমরে আমরা, শান্তিতে আমরা, সর্বত্র আমরা দেশের তরে”)
Q: What was the first regiment of the Bangladesh Army?
A: The first regiment of the Bangladesh Army was the East Bengal Regiment, established on February 15, 1948.
Q: How can I join the Bangladesh Army?
A: To join the Bangladesh Army, you need to meet specific educational and physical requirements, pass various tests and interviews, and go through a training program at the Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA). More details can be found on the official Bangladesh Army website or recruitment offices.
Q: What are the main responsibilities of the Bangladesh Army?
A: The main responsibilities include defending the nation’s territorial integrity, supporting national security strategies, and assisting in domestic emergencies and civil administration.
Q: What are the key roles of the Bangladesh Army during national emergencies?
A: During national emergencies, the Bangladesh Army assists in disaster relief, maintains law and order, and supports civilian agencies as needed.
Q: How does the Bangladesh Army support international relations?
A: The Bangladesh Army supports international relations by participating in peacekeeping missions, engaging in joint exercises with other nations, and contributing to global stability and security.
