Bangladesh Bought ‘Obsolete’ Chinese Submarines: Russian expert

Two diesel electric submarines that Bangladesh recently purchased for $203 million from China, are obsolete, according to Russian expert.

The submarines, which would become first that Bangladesh owns after they enter service in 2017, were constructed in the 1970s and were considered to be unsuccessful, Russian military expert Vasily Kashin was quoted as saying by Sputnik News Tuesday. The submarines were upgraded 035 project submarines.

The Chinese navy used the 035G project submarines in combat training in 1990-2000. They were equipped with new torpedoes and sonar stations copied from the French sonars.

Russian experts further stated that the submarines were already obsolete even at the beginning of the construction by China in late 1980s and this is one of the reasons that persuaded China buy 12 submarines from Russia later.

The expert further said that lack of experience of the Bangladesh Navy and their possession of the obsolete 035G submarines make them an easy target for a more advanced Indian Navy in case such a situation arises.

The Indian discontent is not due to the supply of this particular submarine, but it is due to the fact that Bangladesh is strengthening its military using Chinese weapons.

Judging by some Indian publications, the expert further said, "if Bangladesh had purchased the same or even a larger number of weapons from extra-regional suppliers, for example, Russia or Europe, it would not have caused such negative emotions from the Indian side.”

In addition to the submarines, Bangladesh had also purchased Chinese project 056 corvettes. The expert also added that there are reports that they had also purchased frigates and there are numerous contracts in recent years for the supply of military equipment to the army and the air force.