Police aviation unit ‘not realistic’ now: Home minister

The Ministry of Home Affairs said on Monday that establishing a dedicated aviation unit for the country’s police force is not currently feasible, citing poor maintenance standards and operational limitations in existing law enforcement aircraft.

Speaking at a gathering of senior police officers during ‘Police Week 2026’ at the Prime Minister's Office, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the government’s priority should be strengthening existing capabilities before considering a new aviation unit.

“If any agency needs a helicopter only for prestige, that is a different matter. But first we must ensure real operational capability,” he stated.

Ahmed said two helicopters purchased from Russia during the previous Awami League government have not yet been delivered because of international sanctions and financial transaction complications.

“Clearance from the concerned country has already been obtained, and the helicopters may be delivered soon,” he said, adding that assistance from the army would likely be needed for maintenance once the aircraft arrive.

Referring to the existing helicopter operated by the elite force Rapid Action Battalion, the minister said its maintenance condition was unsatisfactory, noting that he personally felt uncomfortable boarding it during a visit to Rajshahi.

Of the two helicopters operated by Border Guard Bangladesh, he said one was constantly under maintenance while the other was out of service.

However, the minister did not completely rule out the idea of a police aviation unit in the future. He said the government could reconsider the proposal once the force demonstrates sufficient technical and operational capacity.

Bangladesh Police currently does not operate any aircraft of its own.