Hydrocarbon security and air-maritime fusion forces: Bangladesh’s aviation defence strategy in the great-power competition over the Bay of Bengal

Ziad Bin Abdul Awal and Monmoy Paul

Abstarct

The strategic significance of the Bay of Bengal has garnered increasing attention amidst the intensifying competition among global and regional powers vying for influence in South Asia. In this context, Bangladesh's aviation defense strategy is evolving to address the complex challenges posed by hydrocarbon security and the integration of air-maritime fusion forces. Hydrocarbon resources in the Bay of Bengal are crucial to regional energy security, making the control and safeguarding of these assets a strategic priority. As major powers such as India, China, and the United States expand their maritime and aerial capabilities, Bangladesh faces the imperative to develop a robust defense posture that can deter threats and protect its economic interests. This paper examines the role of air-maritime fusion forces in bolstering Bangladesh’s defense strategy within the broader framework of great-power rivalry. The fusion of air and marine domains enhances situational awareness, enables rapid response to emerging threats, and strengthens the country's capacity to secure vital hydrocarbon assets. The integration of these forces signifies a shift from traditional, siloed military approaches toward a more coordinated and dynamic defense mechanism suited to modern warfare and regional security challenges.Publication Type

Publication Type

Journal Article

Publication Year

2026

Author(s)

Ziad Bin Abdul Awal and Monmoy Paul

Journal Name

Osmani Papers

Volume, Issue

1, 1

Pagination

99-113

Article Type

Paper

DOI: 10.67844/pk9ajj

Keywords: Aviation Defense Strategy, Hydrocarbon Security, Air-Maritime Fusion, Bay of Bengal.

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