PM for 3-dimensional naval force

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday stressed the need for a skilled, modern and balanced three-dimensional naval force to safeguard Bangladesh's maritime boundary despite the current financial constraints.
She was addressing a function at the naval berth BNS Isa Khan marking the commissioning of two modern frigates, BNS Abu Bakar and BNS Ali Haider, procured from China and taking the names of two other UK-made ones being replaced.
Hasina said two ultramodern corvettes, under construction in China, would also be added to Bangladesh Navy by 2015 while two submarines, the process to add which has been finalised, by 2015's end.
She mentioned that a process is on to build a submarine berth and its infrastructure alongside the one to build Bangladesh's largest naval base at Rabanabad in Patuakhali.
She said the government undertook short and long-term development plans for Bangladesh Navy which would gradually be implemented by 2030.
Hasina also mentioned the commissioning of the naval aviation, comprising two helicopters and two patrol aircraft, and the Special Warfare Diving and Salvage force.
She these steps increased the capacity to patrol the vast maritime area, helping protect Bangladesh's maritime boundary and resources.
Hasina said Bangladesh's land resources were gradually shrinking due to continuous extraction, prompting the government to eye maritime resources which are essential for rapid economic development.