PM visits Army's summer training exercise in Barishal

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday visited the Bangladesh Army's summer training exercise at Babuganj in Barishal, where he observed combat drills and reviewed the force's operational preparedness.

The Prime Minister arrived at the training ground in East Rahmatpur around 11:30am and toured the exercise area on foot, witnessing tactical manoeuvres, jungle warfare training and simulated combat operations. Army officials briefed him on the troops' strategic preparedness and ongoing training activities.

During the visit, he also observed the operation of an anti-drone multi-barrel defence system designed to detect and neutralise hostile drones. Military officials explained the system's capabilities and its role in modern battlefield operations.

Interacting with soldiers deployed in the exercise, the Prime Minister enquired about their duties and encouraged them to uphold professionalism and dedication. He also spent time with the troops in the field and shared a meal prepared under simulated battlefield conditions.

The PM said the Bangladesh Army remains a symbol of the country's independence and sovereignty and continues to earn public confidence through its professionalism, discipline and patriotism.

He stressed the importance of maintaining high standards of training, adopting modern technology and ensuring constant operational readiness to preserve the Army's reputation.

Recalling his upbringing in a military family, the Prime Minister said visiting soldiers brought back childhood memories and expressed hope that the Bangladesh Army would continue to enhance its professional reputation both at home and internationally.

He also assured the government of continued support for the Army's modernisation and capability development.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan, MP, Prime Minister's Defence Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Military Secretary to the Prime Minister Major General Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq and other senior military officials were present during the visit.