Lalmonirhat Air Base 2025 Introduction

Lalmonirhat Air Base 2025  has stirred headlines across Bangladesh and South Asia. Once a World War II-era airfield, the site near Lalmonirhat has seen renewed attention and activity, prompting speculation, strategic debate, and diplomatic signaling. With reports of plans for an aviation university, military-infrastructure upgrades, and possible foreign technical assistance, Lalmonirhat is shaping up to be more than just a revived airfield—it’s become a focal point of geopolitical interest and national defense policy.

In this exclusive report, we’ll explore the history of Lalmonirhat Air Base, the recent inauguration or revival moves, what is known and what remains speculative, reactions from neighboring countries, strategic implications, and what the future likely holds.

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Lalmonirhat Air Base 2025 Historical Background

British-era Origin (1931-1940s): Lalmonirhat airfield was constructed around 1931 by the British colonial administration. It played a role during World War II as a forward base supporting allied operations in the Burma-Assam-Myanmar region

• Post-Partition & Civil Use: After British rule ended and Partition in 1947, the field was briefly used. In 1958, Pakistan facilitated limited civilian airline service between Lalmonirhat and Dhaka. Later, programmes attempted reopening or periodic use, but consistent operations did not resume.
• Dormancy & Disuse: For decades, Lalmonirhat’s runway and facilities remained largely abandoned or underutilized. Its ICAO code is VGLM

Recent Revival & Inauguration Moves

Army Aviation School Base at Lalmonirhat (March 2020)

On 3 March 2020, Bangladesh’s Army Chief General Aziz Ahmed inaugurated an Army Aviation School base in Lalmonirhat Cantonment. The event included opening a new helipad and laying the foundation stones for Officers’ Mess and SM Barracks Lalmonirhat Air Base inauguration exclusive report in 2025.

Lalmonirhat Air Base inauguration exclusive report in 2025 The aviation school is part of the Army Aviation Group, providing training in 14 trades for aeronauts, engineers, and crew. It is an extension of the Dhaka-based school established in 2012.

Lalmonirhat Air Base Revival Plans (2024-25)

In March 2025, the government unveiled plans to revive the old Lalmonirhat airfield as an active air base. The proposal reportedly includes technical assistance from China Lalmonirhat Air Base 2025

The proposed revival involves converting the site into a large air base on about 700 acres, including divisions for combat operations, a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and an aerospace technology university Lalmonirhat Air Base 2025

The proposed revival involves converting the site into a large air base on about 700 acres, including divisions for combat operations, a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and an aerospace technology university

Large Footprint & Runway: The airfield spans over 1,166 acres and reportedly had a long runway (~4 km) in its operational peak. Although currently degraded, the legacy infrastructure makes revival easier in certain respects Lalmonirhat Air Base inauguration exclusive report in 2025.

Controversies & Speculations

Foreign Assistance & Chinese Role

Some media reports and geopolitical analysts claim that China is assisting Bangladesh in reviving Lalmonirhat Air Base. These reports mention Chinese inspection visits and possible involvement in infrastructure projects Lalmonirhat Air Base 2025.

However, Bangladesh’s government sources, including Brigadier General Md. Nazim-ud-Daula (Director of Military Operations), have denied or clarified that although there is revival work underway (for national needs and the aerospace university), there are no foreign entities allowed to operate in a way harming national security.

India’s Reaction and Security Concerns

Indian strategic analysts and media have raised concerns about Bangladesh activating an airbase so close to the Siliguri Corridor, especially if foreign powers are involved. Such a base could enable increased surveillance or logistical support near sensitive borders.

Indian government has sought assurances from Dhaka that the base will not be used for aggressive military purposes. Bangladeshi statements have emphasized national security, sovereignty, and that any future use would be aligned with Bangladesh’s defense and strategic priorities.

ti  has stirred headlines across Bangladesh and South Asia. Once a World War II-era airfield, the site near Lalmonirhat has seen renewed attention and activity, prompting speculation, strategic debate, and diplomatic signaling Lalmonirhat Air Base 2025.