The arrival follows a September 14 landing of an Egyptian military aircraft at Shah Amanat Airport. The next day, the American soldiers toured Patenga Air Base under the auspices of the Bangladesh Air Force. This exercise continues the legacy of previous joint drills Tiger Lightning and Operation Lightning designed to enhance interoperability for peacekeeping and regional security.
Suspicious US Officer Death Clouds Visit
This high-profile visit comes just weeks after the mysterious death of US Special Forces officer Terrence Arvell Jackson. Jackson’s body was discovered in the Westin Hotel in Dhaka on August 31. He had been stationed in Bangladesh since April, yet neither the US nor Bangladesh governments have publicly addressed the circumstances surrounding his death. Reports indicate that Jackson’s body was released directly to the US Embassy without a formal local post-mortem or criminal investigation, prompting inquiries by Indian intelligence agencies.
“Transparency remains critical,” said a defence analyst, citing concerns over procedural lapses in Jackson’s case.
Strengthening US Bangladesh Military Ties
Since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation in August 2024, the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus has deepened strategic cooperation with Washington. Former US Ambassador Peter Haas, credited with fostering defence relations, has visited Bangladesh six times in the past year. In early August, Haas traveled to Cox’s Bazar to engage leaders of recent political movements.
Analysts suggest that these joint drills underscore a mutual commitment to regional stability amid rising Indo-Pacific tensions. The unregistered stay of US troops, however, may fuel scrutiny over diplomatic protocols as both nations aim to bolster military readiness and trust.
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