The Bangladesh government has failed to bring in two helicopters purchased from Russia’s JSC Russian Helicopters even after five and a half years. The aircraft were intended to strengthen police operations in coastal and hilly areas. Despite paying Tk 299.68 crore in two installments and keeping the remaining funds ready, the helicopters have not been delivered due to US sanctions that restrict imports from Russian entities. Diplomatic efforts and repeated communications with the Russian company have not resolved the issue, and officials now consider the chances of delivery slim.

The Ministry of Home Affairs is preparing to send a letter to JSC Russian Helicopters seeking a refund of the full payment. The purchase agreement was signed in February 2021 between the Bangladesh Police and the Russian manufacturer, with approval from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs later that year. Four police officers were trained as pilots, and maintenance personnel were also prepared, but the aviation wing could not be launched as the helicopters never arrived.

According to ministry sources, if the refund is secured, the government plans to buy helicopters from a non-sanctioned country to avoid future complications.