Bangladesh reportedly considers acquiring Türkiye’s T129 Atak helicopters

Bangladesh is reportedly considering acquiring Türkiye’s T129 Atak attack helicopters as part of its ongoing defense modernization efforts.

Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the T129 Atak has attracted Bangladesh’s attention due to its high performance and versatility in attack and reconnaissance missions.

Bangladesh to strengthen defense cooperation with Türkiye

The potential acquisition of the T129 Atak helicopters marks deepening defense cooperation between Bangladesh and Türkiye. Bangladesh already operates several Turkish-made defense systems, including:

• Bayraktar TB2 C/UAVs: Unmanned aerial vehicles used for surveillance and reconnaissance.
• TRG-230 and TRG-300 multiple launch rocket systems: Advanced artillery systems enhancing ground forces’ capabilities.

These existing collaborations reflect Bangladesh’s confidence in Türkiye’s defense technology and its commitment to strengthening military ties.

As part of the Atak Program, the following T129 Atak Helicopter deliveries were made:

• 76 to the Turkish Land Forces Command (59 definite, 17 optional)
• 27 to the Turkish Interior Ministry (24 definite, three optional)
• Six to the Philippines Air Force
• Six to the Nigerian Air Force

Length: 14.54 meters (47.7 feet)	Height: 3.95 meters
Width: 3.49 meters	Maximum cruise speed: 281 kilometers per hour (152 knots)
Crew: Two	Rate of climb: 13.26 meters per second (2610 feet per minute)
Main rotor diameter: 11.9 meters	Vertical rate of climb: 7.3 m/sec
Maximum take-off mass (MTOW): 5,065 kilograms (11,166 pounds)	Service ceiling: 4,572 meters
Endurance: Three hours	In-ground effect (HIGE) ceiling: 4,572 meters
In ground effect (HIGE) ceiling: 4,572 meters	Range: 537 kilometers
Power: 2 x Turboshaft Engines LHTEC – CTS800-4a Take-off Power 2 x 1024 kw 2 x 1.373 shp	Roles: Attack, Precision Strike, Armed Reconnaissance, Armed Escort, Fire Support, Suppression of Enemy Air Defence, Deep Strike, Security / Urban Warfare