The United Kingdom and Bangladesh have signed a government-to-government defence sales agreement for the transfer of the former Royal Navy survey vessel HMS Enterprise, an Echo-class hydrographic and oceanographic ship previously operated by the Royal Navy.<\/p>\n
The agreement was signed at Bangladesh Navy Headquarters in Dhaka, following what officials described as extensive technical engagement between the Bangladesh Navy, the UK Ministry of Defence and the Royal Navy.<\/p>\n
According to the British High Commission in Dhaka, the vessel will support Bangladesh\u2019s maritime security and contribute to wider regional stability efforts, while also expanding the country\u2019s hydrographic and oceanographic survey capacity. The ship is also expected to support scientific research activity and provide opportunities for Bangladeshi universities.<\/p>\n
The signing ceremony was attended by British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke, Defence Attach\u00e9 Commander Lee Norton, and a UK Ministry of Defence commercial representative.<\/p>\n
Cooke described the transfer as a reflection of growing defence ties between the two countries, stating: \u201cThe sale of this survey vessel reflects the deep trust and strong cooperation between the United Kingdom and Bangladesh. HMS Enterprise served the Royal Navy with distinction, and we are proud to see her begin a new chapter supporting Bangladesh\u2019s maritime capability and our shared commitment to a secure and prosperous Bay of Bengal.\u201d<\/p>\n
The UK government said the sale highlights its continued partnership with Bangladesh in enhancing maritime security and promoting a \u201cfree and open Indo-Pacific\u201d, with the ship\u2019s new role expected to strengthen Bangladesh\u2019s ability to conduct survey operations, support humanitarian and disaster-response missions, and improve understanding of its maritime environment.<\/p>\n