The United Kingdom and the Bangladesh Navy have signed a government-to-government agreement for the sale of the former HMS Enterprise, a modern Echo-class hydrographic and oceanographic research vessel. In a statement made by ISPR, it was noted that the agreement was made possible through continuous and productive efforts maintained by both countries since 2025.
The signing ceremony, held at Bangladesh Navy Headquarters, took place following extensive technical negotiations conducted between the Bangladesh Navy, the UK Ministry of Defence, and the Royal Navy. Representing the UK Government at the ceremony were British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke, Defence Attaché Commander Lee Norton, and Ministry of Defence Commercial Officer Nanise Qalobulawasaikabara. On the Bangladeshi side, Navy Chief of Staff Admiral M. Nazmul Hassan and Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Logistics) Rear Admiral Jahangir Adil Samdany were in attendance.
Operational Capability and Mission Profile of the Bangladesh Navy
Once inducted into the Bangladesh Navy’s inventory, the vessel will multidimensionally enhance the country’s operational capability within its maritime jurisdiction. The platform, which will play a critical role in implementing up-to-date survey standards set by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) for safe navigation and in developing blue economy strategies, will carry out missions to prevent illegal intrusion, smuggling, and piracy when deployed in deep seas. In addition, the ship, which is capable of conducting search and rescue operations at sea, will provide effective surveillance of fishing activities and strategic economic areas such as oil and gas fields.
Academic Contribution and Modern Equipment
HMS Enterprise, which was first commissioned in 2002 and decommissioned by the Royal Navy in 2023, is equipped with capabilities for deep-sea research, seabed mapping, and physical oceanographic data collection. Featuring a helicopter landing deck and modern communication facilities, the vessel will also provide academic support for maritime research activities of students from the Bangladesh Maritime University and the Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute (BORI).
Delivery Timeline and Strategic Partnership
British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke stated that the sale reflects the deep trust between the two countries and strengthens their shared commitment to the security of the Bay of Bengal. According to the agreement timeline, the vessel’s refurbishment process is planned to be completed by 2026, with its formal induction into the Bangladesh Navy fleet scheduled for 2027.
Source: C4Defence / the UK Ministry of Defence,
