Author: Anil Khosla

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562: CHINESE J-10C FOR BANGLADESH: NEXT BIG STEP OR STRATEGIC MISSTEP?

 

Pic Courtesy Net

 

My Article published on The EurasianTimes Website on 22 Dec 24.

 

Introduction. Bangladesh has been actively pursuing modernising its armed forces. The Chinese J-10C, a fourth-generation-plus multi-role fighter jet boasting advanced avionics, weapon systems, and cost efficiency, has featured on its wish list. This news about the possible acquisition of 16 J-10C aircraft follows Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan’s visit to China last month, during which he expressed Bangladesh’s commitment to acquiring multirole combat aircraft and attack helicopters. The announcement has come at a time of high geopolitical tensions in South Asia, when military acquisitions are closely watched. The move has sparked an exciting debate, with proponents lauding it as a transformative step for Bangladesh’s air force, while critics warn of strategic, financial, and operational pitfalls.

 

The J-10C: Features and Capabilities. The J-10C, known as the ‘Vigorous Dragon’, is claimed to be a fourth-generation multirole combat aircraft equipped with the Chinese-manufactured WS-10B engine. It has been developed by China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. J-10C represents an evolutionary version of the J-10 series.  The J-10C was first unveiled to the Chinese public in July 2017 and has been operational since 2018. It features significant advancements over earlier variants. Reportedly, its key features include:-

 

    • The J-10C is equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which offers enhanced detection, tracking, and targeting capabilities in all weather conditions.

 

    • Advanced avionics and integrated electronic warfare systems for jamming enemy radar and countering electronic threats enhance survivability.

 

    • The jet can carry various armaments, including the PL-15 beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVR-AAM), which has a range of over 200 km.

 

    • It is capable of both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, the J-10C is well-suited for diverse operational scenarios.

 

    • With a delta wing-canard configuration and an optional thrust-vectoring engine, the J-10C claims excellent manoeuvrability and agility in combat.

 

Bangladesh’s Defence Modernisation Goals. Bangladesh’s military modernisation plan emphasises upgrading its ageing fleet and enhancing its defence capabilities. The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) currently operates ageing platforms such as the MiG-29 and F-7, which are increasingly difficult to maintain and operate in modern combat scenarios. Acquiring J-10C fighter jets could boost the BAF’s operational readiness and deterrence capabilities.

 

Challenges and Risks. Bangladesh is China’s second-largest arms buyer after Pakistan, the first country to procure J-10C fighters from China. Despite its apparent advantages, acquiring J-10C jets poses several challenges and risks for Bangladesh. Critics argue that the aircraft relies heavily on older technologies and reverse-engineered components. The aircraft’s performance in simulated combat scenarios, especially against more advanced jets, has not consistently proven superior. Seemingly, the J-10C struggles with issues related to its radar and avionics compared to modern, Western-made jets. The J-10C’s WS-10 engine has faced reliability issues in high-stress environments, raising concerns about its long-term performance, reliability and maintenance. Inconsistency in after-sales service and spare parts availability would be another challenge. These risks underscore the need for a comprehensive analysis before making a decision.

 

Cost Considerations. The J-10C is often marketed as a cost-effective alternative, but this can be misleading. While cheaper than Western alternatives, it still represents a significant investment for Bangladesh, whose defence budget is relatively limited. Higher maintenance and potentially lower service life could negate initial savings. Chinese loans often accompany these deals, which can lead to long-term economic dependencies. Financing through Chinese loans might deepen Bangladesh’s economic reliance on Beijing, potentially leading to broader strategic vulnerabilities.

 

India-Bangladesh relations. India-Bangladesh relations have taken a nosedive after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ouster and an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad’s coming to the helm in Dhaka. Bangladesh has witnessed widespread communal violence against minorities, especially Hindus, which has soured Dhaka’s ties with New Delhi, with the latter accusing the Yunus-led interim government of not doing enough and disregarding the atrocities perpetrated by radical Islamist elements against the minority Hindu community in the country. Furthermore, the emergence of Mohammad Yunus’s government in Bangladesh, with its increasing alignment with China and Pakistan, has added another layer of complexity to India’s diplomatic strategy. Bangladesh’s growing ties with China and Pakistan are potentially destabilising, particularly as China seeks to expand its influence in South Asia. India is now carefully monitoring the situation, wary of Bangladesh becoming a vassal state of Chinese influence.

 

Indian Concern. China’s growing influence in South Asia is evident in its economic and military partnerships. Amid deteriorating ties with India, Bangladesh increasingly turns to China for military modernisation. Bangladesh’s acquisition of J-10C jets would deepen its defence ties with Beijing, aligning with China’s broader strategy of counterbalancing India’s regional influence. This could shift the balance of power in South Asia, with India’s proximity and strategic interests making it sensitive to military developments in Bangladesh. The strategic location of Bangladesh, sharing borders with India’s sensitive north-eastern states, makes the issue even more pressing. Acquiring Chinese jets and aligning with China complicate Dhaka’s relationship with New Delhi.

 

Balancing Foreign Policy. The U.S. and Western nations might view Bangladesh’s deepening defence ties with China as a shift away from a balanced foreign policy. This alignment might affect Bangladesh’s ability to balance relationships with other major powers, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The response of these powers to Bangladesh’s alignment with China could impact Bangladesh’s access to Western defence technology and economic support. Closer defence ties with China could affect Bangladesh’s relations with Western nations, limiting future cooperation and technology transfer opportunities.

 

West or East: A Tight Rope Walk. The likelihood of Bangladesh acquiring Chinese J-10C aircraft, despite having a U.S.-backed government, depends on several factors involving its domestic policies, regional security considerations, and geopolitical strategy. A U.S.-backed government in Bangladesh might face pressure to align its defence purchases with Western allies to strengthen strategic ties. The U.S. could leverage tools like defence cooperation agreements, sanctions under CAATSA or military aid to dissuade purchases from China. On the other hand, Bangladesh has a defence relationship with China and is a major supplier of military hardware. The purchase of the J-10C would align with Bangladesh’s historical reliance on Chinese equipment. Bangladesh has sought to balance its foreign relations by engaging with Western and Eastern powers. While Bangladesh’s defence ties with China make the J-10C a plausible acquisition, a U.S.-backed government might weigh the risks of straining relations with Washington. The decision will hinge on Bangladesh’s ability to navigate the competing pressures from the U.S. and China while prioritising its defence modernisation needs and regional strategic interests.

 

Conclusion. Bangladesh’s potential acquisition of Chinese J-10C fighter jets represents both an opportunity and a risk. On one hand, the J-10C would significantly enhance the Bangladesh Air Force’s capabilities, improving its deterrence and operational flexibility. On the other hand, the move comes with substantial financial, operational, and geopolitical challenges that could outweigh the benefits if not carefully managed. The decision also carries significant implications for Bangladesh’s strategic autonomy. Before finalising the deal, Bangladesh must rigorously evaluate whether the J-10C’s benefits outweigh its risks, particularly regarding long-term reliability and strategic autonomy. This careful evaluation is crucial to ensure that the J-10C acquisition is a transformative step forward rather than a strategic misstep for Bangladesh.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

Link to the article on the website:-

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/no-j-10c-fighters-for-bangladesh-chinese-aircrafts/

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

References:-

  1. Ahmad, N., & Rahman, A. “China’s Military Expansion in South Asia: Implications for Bangladesh.” South Asian Security Review, vol. 12, no. 3, 2023, pp. 45-63.

 

  1. Beijing Insight. “Bangladesh’s Potential Purchase of Chinese J-10C Jets: Analysing Strategic Choices.” The Diplomat, 15 December 2023.

 

  1. Chowdhury, A. “J-10C Jets for Bangladesh: Boosting Capabilities or a Risky Gamble?” Strategic Studies Quarterly, vol. 9, no. 2, 2024, pp. 72-89.

 

  1. Farhana, S. “Bangladesh’s Defense Modernisation: The Role of Chinese Military Hardware.” Journal of South Asian Defense Studies, vol. 18, no. 4, 2023, pp. 97-116.

 

  1. Global Security Review. “The Chinese J-10C Jet Deal with Bangladesh: Strategic Implications for Regional Power Dynamics.” Global Security Review, 20 November 2023.

 

  1. Jian, X. “China’s Military Strategy in South Asia: The Case of Bangladesh’s J-10C Fighter Jets.” Asia-Pacific Security, vol. 7, no. 1, 2023, pp. 58-75.

 

  1. “The Strategic Consequences of Bangladesh Acquiring Chinese Fighter Jets.” South Asian Voices, 10 December 2023.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

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563: BOOK REVIEW: THE PERSONAL IS POLITICAL

 

 

BOOK REVIEW

THE PERSONAL IS POLITICAL

 

Review by: Air Marshal Anil Khosla (Retd) PVSM, AVSM, VM

Former Vice Chief of Air Staff, Indian Air Force.

 

Aruna Roy’s memoir, The Personal Is Political: An Activist’s Memoir, offers an in-depth exploration of her journey from a privileged upbringing and a position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) to becoming a grassroots activist dedicated to empowering marginalised communities in rural India. The title reflects the feminist slogan popularised during the second wave of the movement in the 1960s, encapsulating the central theme of her book: the intersection of personal experiences with broader political issues.

 

Roy’s narrative is a testament to her belief that personal activism, fuelled by empathy and commitment, can bring about systemic change. She recounts her resignation from the IAS in 1975 to join the Social Work and Research Centre (SWRC) in Tilonia, Rajasthan, founded by her husband, Bunker Roy. This decision marked the beginning of her deep engagement with grassroots movements, leading to the establishment of the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) and significant contributions to the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the Right to Work, and the Right to Food movements in India.

 

Throughout the memoir, Roy reflects on her experiences as a woman activist navigating male-dominated spaces and grappling with deeply ingrained social conditioning of masculinity. She shares stories of women she regards as her teachers, friends, and fellow activists, contributing to the oral history tradition in modern times. Her narrative underscores a profound humility and willingness to listen and learn, enriching the discourse on grassroots activism and social change.

 

Roy challenges the misconception that women, particularly those in rural areas, need skill training for better remuneration. She contends that this notion undermines these women’s immense labour and marginalises their work by labelling it “unskilled.” Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates the skill and effort required in these roles, advocating for proper recognition of their contributions.

 

The memoir operates as a profound meditation on two distinct yet intertwined levels. Roy introspectively examines herself on one level—her ideas, choices, rationality, and conscience. On the other hand, she questions broader societal structures: patriarchal norms, the exploitation of labour, and caste-based discrimination. Her unwavering commitment to social justice is evident as she emphasises the transformative power of empathy. This empathy, she argues, is crucial in understanding the struggles of the marginalised and in fuelling the relentless struggle to overturn these injustices.

 

Roy’s insights into gender, labour, friendship, organised resistance, and social justice challenge readers to rethink their perceptions and engage more deeply with the world around them. Her memoir, serving as a historical document, is both a guide and an inspiration for those seeking to understand and challenge systemic inequalities. Her journey from an IAS officer to a grassroots activist illustrates the transformative power of empathy and commitment, making her memoir a vital contribution to understanding and addressing social inequities.

 

In addition to her activism, Roy’s memoir delves into her reflections on various topics, ranging from oral history and literature to feminism and multiple aspects of democracy, including decentralisation. She provides thoughtful commentary on the importance of grassroots movements and the crucial role of ordinary people in bringing about sustainable change, instilling a sense of empowerment and hope in the readers.

 

Roy’s narrative is enriched by her tributes to colleagues, particularly women from poorer rural families, whom she considers her mentors. She highlights their resilience and extraordinary resistance to oppression, emphasising that every issue, whether poverty, discrimination, inequality, or corruption, has personal and political ramifications. Roy demonstrates that each individual can make a difference by connecting the personal and the political.

 

The memoir has received praise for its depth and insight. Economists Amartya Sen and Jean Drèze describe it as a reflection on “a life of deep engagement, weaving the personal and the political,” calling it “a great inspiration.” Similarly, author Perumal Murugan notes that the book reinforces the proverb “Actions are the best words spoken,” highlighting the importance of action in bringing about change. The book’s reception not only underscores its literary merit but also its significant contribution to the discourse on social justice and activism.

 

In conclusion, Aruna Roy’s The Personal Is Political: An Activist’s Memoir is a compelling and thought-provoking account of a life dedicated to social justice and grassroots activism. Roy illustrates the profound connection between individual experiences and broader political movements through her journey, offering valuable insights into the transformative power of empathy, commitment, and organised resistance. Her memoir serves as both an inspiration and a guide for those seeking to understand and challenge societal systemic inequalities.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

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561: OPERATION PAPER CLIP: A MORAL PARADOX

 

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Operation Paperclip was a secret program conducted by the U.S. government at the end of World War II. It aimed to recruit German scientists, engineers, and technicians—many of whom had worked for the Nazi regime—to work in the United States. The program was driven by the desire to leverage their expertise in science and technology, particularly in rocketry, aeronautics, and chemical and biological weapons, to gain an advantage over the Soviet Union during the early Cold War.

 

Origins and Motivation. The Office of Strategic Services (OSS) initiated the program, which later became the CIA and was overseen by the Joint Intelligence Objectives Agency (JIOA). The primary goal was to secure German scientific expertise before it could fall into Soviet hands as part of the larger geopolitical rivalry between the U.S. and the USSR.

 

Key Figures. Over 1,600 scientists were recruited, including figures such as Wernher von Braun and Kurt Blome. Many of these individuals were members of the Nazi Party or implicated in war crimes, raising ethical concerns.

 

    • Wernher von Braun. Director of the V-2 rocket program, which used forced labour from concentration camps like Mittelbau-Dora. Thousands of prisoners died due to harsh conditions and mistreatment. He became a central figure in the U.S. missile and space programs and developed the Redstone rocket, America’s first operational ballistic missile. He also played a pivotal role in NASA, leading the team that developed the Saturn V rocket, which launched Apollo missions to the moon. He is celebrated as a visionary of space exploration, but his involvement with the Nazis and the use of slave labour cast a shadow on his achievements.

 

    • Kurt Blome. Deputy Surgeon General of the Third Reich and head of Nazi biological warfare research. He conducted experiments on prisoners, including attempts to weaponise plague and other diseases. Despite being tried at the Nuremberg Doctors’ Trial for war crimes, he was acquitted and recruited to work on U.S. biological warfare programs. His expertise influenced Cold War bioweapons research.

 

    • Arthur Rudolph. Production manager of the V-2 rocket program at Mittelwerk, which used concentration camp labour under brutal conditions. He became a key figure in the U.S. missile program, helping to develop the Pershing missile and Saturn I rocket. He was forced to renounce U.S. citizenship in 1984 after his Nazi ties were publicly exposed.

 

    • Hubertus Strughold. He conducted human experiments related to aviation medicine, such as exposing prisoners to extreme cold and low oxygen conditions. He is known as the “Father of Space Medicine” in the U.S., contributing to the physiological understanding required for human spaceflight. His name was removed from a NASA award in the 1990s following revelations about his Nazi past.

 

Contributions to U.S. Programs. Paperclip scientists’ expertise gave the U.S. a significant edge in the arms race and space race against the Soviet Union. These scientists significantly advanced U.S. military and space capabilities, including the development of ballistic missile technology, including the Redstone and Saturn rockets, early contributions to the U.S. space program, culminating in the moon landing, and advancements in aerodynamics, chemical weapons, and medical research.

 

 

Moral Paradox. Operation Paperclip remains a moral paradox. On the one hand, it contributed to remarkable achievements such as the moon landing and advancements in military defence. On the other, it allowed individuals complicit in atrocities to escape accountability, reflecting how Cold War exigencies often overrode ethical considerations. The program showcased the tension between moral accountability and pragmatic decision-making during the Cold War. Some of the scientists were accused of direct involvement in atrocities, including forced labour and experiments on concentration camp prisoners. The U.S. government sanitised their records to avoid public backlash and legal challenges, concealing their Nazi affiliations and war crimes. The U.S. government’s willingness to whitewash war crimes for geopolitical advantage remains controversial.

 

Operation Paperclip was a double-edged sword. While it accelerated U.S. technological progress and Cold War readiness, it also highlighted the moral compromises made to pursue geopolitical advantage. The program remains controversial as an example of prioritising strategic gains over justice and accountability.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

References:-

  1. Jacobsen, Annie. “Operation Paperclip: The Secret Intelligence Program That Brought Nazi Scientists to America.” New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2014.
  1. Lasby, Clarence G. “Project Paperclip: German Scientists and the Cold War.” New York: Atheneum, 1971.
  1. Neufeld, Michael J. “The Rocket and the Reich: Peenemünde and the Coming of the Ballistic Missile Era.” Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1995.
  1. Simpson, Christopher. “Blowback: America’s Recruitment of Nazis and Its Effects on the Cold War.”, New York: Weidenfeld & Nicolson, 1988.
  1. Broad, William J. “Teller’s War: The Top-Secret Story Behind the Star Wars Deception.” New York: Simon & Schuster, 1992.
  1. Biddle, Tami Davis. “Technological Knowledge and Ethical Ambiguity: The Legacy of Operation Paperclip.”, Journal of Military History, Vol. 62, no. 4 (1998): 781–810.
  1. Simpson, Christopher. “The Ethical Quandary of Postwar Science: Operation Paperclip and its Long Shadow.” American Historical Review, Vol. 93, no. 3 (1995): 543–567.
  1. Neufeld, Michael J. “Wernher von Braun, the SS, and the Concentration Camps.”, Technology and Culture, Vol. 31, no. 3 (1990): 569–599.
  1. Fox, Robert J. “Nazi Scientists in America: Scientific Advancement or Moral Compromise?”, Ethics & International Affairs, Vol. 8 (2002): 112–129.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.