Bangladesh Coast Guard to Get Huge Upgrade

File Image: Fincantieri - Cantieri Navali Italiani S.p.A.

MarineLink is reporting that the Bangladesh Coast Guard has reached agreement with Italy and Fincantieri for the refurbishment and transfer of four Minerva Class Corvettes, “Minerva”, “Sibilla”, “Urania”, and “Danaide”, for use as Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). The 87 meter (285 foot), 1,285 ton, diesel powered, 25 knot vessels had been previously employed in this role by the Italian Navy. They first entered service between 1987 and 1991.

My trusty “Combat Fleets of the World,” 16th Ed., copyright 2013, indicates that the Bangladeshi Coast Guard consisted of approximately 20 officers and 250 enlisted. The Wikipedia entry, which appears very up to date, says they have 1,282 personnel and 57 vessels. Apparently the organization is growing rapidly, helped by the Bangladesh Navy. It is probable they would welcome some assistance from the USCG. It sounds like the Bangladesh Coast Guard closely follows the USCG model in terms of missions and general structure, in that it is a military organization outside the regular defense organization having law enforcement authority and a military mission in time of war.

The intention is to extend the life of these four ships another 20 years. Delivery is expected to take two years. There is no specific information about what the conversion would include.

12 thoughts on “Bangladesh Coast Guard to Get Huge Upgrade

    • Don’t know about the 110s, but all the 378s have been offered for transfer. I think currently it is two to the Philippines, two to Nigeria, and two to Bangladesh. The Philippines will probably get another, but it is going to be a while before they are all decommissioned. There is going to be a significant gap in time before the next NSC is commissioned.

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  2. the 110s were designed with a 15 service life. most are well above that. I would imagine the ones being retired now are the most tired. we commissioned matinicus late 87/88. she’s still working down in Puerto rico. originally she was home ported in cape may. she’ll be hitting the big 30 in a few years.

  3. Perhaps not the most official source, but we have a report

    “Bangladesh Coast Guard to receive 25 Coast Guard Vessel from Japan.
    .
    “Some speculation indicates that the Japanese National Parliament approved this for the security enhancement of multi-billion dollar 1200 MW Matarbari coal power project constructed by a Japanese farm. It’s also considered a token of long and trusted friendship between these two countries. These ships will enhance the operational ability of BCG to a great extend.”

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