Bangladesh Army Receives New Batch Of Chinese VT-5 Light Tanks, Fleet Rises To 44

VT-5 Light Tank Delivery Boosts Bangladesh Army Armored Fleet

The VT-5 light tank fleet in Bangladesh has grown to 44 vehicles following the arrival of a new batch from China, according to official Bangladeshi military sources and regional defense reporting.

The delivery marks another step in the Bangladesh Army’s ongoing armored modernization effort. The Chinese-built VT-5 is designed for rapid deployment and operations in terrain where heavier main battle tanks may face mobility limits.

Bangladesh first inducted the VT-5, also known as the Type 15 export variant, from China’s state-owned defense manufacturer Norinco as part of a broader push to upgrade mechanized capabilities.

Designed For Mobility And Firepower

The VT-5 light tank combines firepower typically associated with heavier platforms with a reduced combat weight. The vehicle is armed with a fully stabilized 105 mm rifled main gun capable of firing armor piercing and high explosive rounds. It is also equipped with a coaxial machine gun and a roof mounted machine gun for close range defense.

Its digital fire control system includes thermal imaging, laser range finding, and stabilized sights, allowing day and night engagement capability. These features place the VT-5 light tank within the modern class of network capable armored systems designed for high tempo operations.

The tank’s modular armor package allows operators to adjust protection levels depending on mission requirements. This approach supports both strategic mobility and tactical flexibility.

Operational Context In Bangladesh

For the Bangladesh Army, the VT-5 light tank fills a specific operational niche. Bangladesh’s terrain includes riverine areas, soft ground, and infrastructure constraints that can limit the movement of heavier main battle tanks.

A lighter armored platform offers advantages in mobility and rapid maneuver. The expansion to 44 vehicles suggests the platform is becoming an established component of Bangladesh’s armored brigades.

Bangladesh has steadily modernized its ground forces over the past decade, incorporating new armored vehicles, artillery systems, and air defense assets. The VT-5 light tank program aligns with this broader procurement strategy.

See also: Bangladesh’s ongoing mechanization and force restructuring efforts under its long term defense development plans.

China Expands Defense Footprint In South Asia

The delivery also reflects China’s continued role as a key defense supplier to Bangladesh. Beijing has supplied naval vessels, aircraft, air defense systems, and armored vehicles to Dhaka over the years.

The VT-5 light tank is one of China’s primary light tank export offerings. It is derived from the Type 15 light tank in service with the People’s Liberation Army, adapted for export customers.

Through companies such as Norinco, China has positioned itself as a competitive supplier in emerging defense markets, offering integrated packages that include training and sustainment support.

For Bangladesh, the procurement underscores its effort to diversify and modernize its equipment inventory while maintaining operational readiness.

Technical Overview Of The VT-5 Light Tank

Open source defense assessments indicate the VT-5 light tank typically weighs between 30 and 36 tons, depending on armor configuration. It is powered by a diesel engine designed to provide a high power to weight ratio.

Key features include:

• 105 mm stabilized main gun
• Automatic transmission
• Advanced fire control with thermal sights
• Modular composite armor
• Potential integration of active protection systems

This configuration is intended to deliver main battle tank level lethality in a lighter, more deployable form factor.

Strategic Implications

While the delivery is primarily a force modernization step, it also reflects broader trends in regional defense procurement. South Asian militaries continue to invest in mobile, networked, and flexible armored platforms suited for diverse terrain.

The VT-5 light tank program demonstrates how lighter armored vehicles are gaining traction as complementary assets alongside heavier main battle tanks.

For Bangladesh, the expanded fleet strengthens armored maneuver capability and supports combined arms operations.