Bangladesh Air Force Museum — Attraction in Dhaka Metropolitan

Bangladesh Air Force Museum - is the first aviation museum of Bangladesh located in Agargaon, Dhaka. This museum was opened in 2014 in an effort to preserve the history, success, and progress of the Bangladesh Air Force's glorious heritage and present it to the new generation. There are 19 aircraft and 3 radars in the Bangladesh Aviation Museum established at Agargaon in the capital. 3 of these aircraft were used by the Indian Air Force in the Great War of Independence of Bangladesh. Later the planes were gifted to Bangladesh by the Indian Air Force. As soon as you enter the museum, you will see a huge square. Militant planes, helicopters and radars are standing in a row witnessing the glory of the Bangladesh Air Force throughout the square. Basically, this museum is decorated with helicopters and airplanes of different periods. Notable among these are: Balaka: Balaka is the first passenger plane of Bangladesh. This Russian-made aircraft came to Bangladesh in 1958. Air Tourer: This aircraft is used for training. In 1997, this New Zealand-made aircraft joined the Bangladesh Air Force. PT-6: In 1985, this aircraft made by China was added to Bangladesh Airlines. Fugazi M-170: This aircraft was built in France in 1960 and joined the Bangladesh Air Force in 1997. Glider: This aircraft given by Germany was brought to Bangladesh in 1982 for the air experience of Bangladesh Air Force. Airtech Canadian DH 3/1000: This bomber made by Canada conducted a successful operation in the Chittagong sea port in 1971 during the liberation war. Hunter Aircraft: India used this aircraft during the liberation war to protect Bangladesh from land enemies. Indian Air Force gifted this aircraft to Bangladesh Air Force. Also has FT-5, MiG-21, G-Nut, F6, A5-111. A food court has been constructed on the south side of the premises to provide food to the visitors of the museum. Besides, the souvenir shop 'Niladri' has been decorated with various products of the Air Force. Portraits of giraffes, chimpanzees, deer etc. have been installed at various points of footpaths as well as children's park to entertain and increase the enthusiasm of children. It is named 'Children's Heaven'. There are also water fountains. Besides, a 'theme park' is being made in the model of a mountain.

Air Museum Schedule: The Air Force Museum is open to visitors from Monday to Thursday from 2 am to 8 pm and from Friday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm. Sunday is...

The museum's collection contains many rare aircraft of historical or technological importance, and various memorabilia and artifacts from the history and development of aviation. Among them is the Apollo 15 Command Module Endeavour which orbited the Moon 74 times in 1971, one of four surviving Convair B-36 Peacemakers, the only surviving North American XB-70 Valkyrie and Bockscar—the Boeing B-29 Superfortress that dropped the Fat Man atomic bomb on Nagasaki during the last days of World War II.

In 2010, the museum launched its 360-degree Virtual Tour, allowing most aircraft and exhibits to be viewed online.

In 2016, the museum opened its 224,000-square-foot (20,800 m2) fourth building, bringing its size to 1,120,000 square feet (104,000 m2).[12] The addition was privately financed by the Air Force Museum Foundation at a cost of $40.8 million (equivalent to $45.7 million in 2021[13]). The building houses more than 70 aircraft, missiles, and space vehicles in four new galleries - Presidential, Research and Development, Space and Global Reach, along with three science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) Learning Nodes.

In 2018, the Boeing B-17F Memphis Belle was placed on permanent public display in the World War II Gallery.[14] The aircraft and its crew became iconic symbols of the heavy bomber crews and support personnel who helped defeat Nazi Germany.

Presidential aircraftEdit

The museum has several Presidential aircraft, including those used by Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower. The centerpiece of the presidential aircraft collection is SAM 26000, a modified Boeing 707 known as a VC-137C, used regularly by presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon. This aircraft took President and Mrs. Kennedy to Dallas on 22 November 1963—the day of the President's assassination. Vice President Johnson was sworn in as president aboard it shortly after the assassination, and the aircraft then carried Kennedy's body back to Washington.[15] It became the backup presidential aircraft after Nixon's first term. It was temporarily removed from display on 5 December 2009, repainted and returned to display on President's Day in 2010.[16]

All presidential aircraft are now displayed in the Presidential Gallery, in the new fourth...

I had a wonderful experience visiting the Bangabandhu Military Museum. This museum is truly a gem in Bangladesh 🇧🇩, offering a wide range of attractions that cater to all interests.

The museum boasts a stunning 3D art gallery, showcasing captivating artwork that brings history to life. It also houses a remarkable collection of antique weapons, providing a glimpse into the rich military heritage of Bangladesh. The exhibits on Bangladesh's history and the biographies of famous individuals who contributed to the country are both enlightening and inspiring.

One of the highlights of the museum is the intricate model pieces, including replicas of iconic structures like the Padma Bridge, Mirpur Uttara Airport, and more. Additionally, visitors can explore detailed models of army bases, forces, submarines, and coast guard boats, offering a deeper understanding of the country's defense forces.

For those seeking entertainment, the museum even features a Star Cineplex and restaurants, ensuring a well-rounded experience for visitors of all ages.

The Bangabandhu Military Museum is not only visually stunning but also offers a valuable insight into the history and achievements of Bangladesh's defense forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the liberation history of Bangladesh in 1971. I highly recommend this place to everyone, regardless of age.

While the museum is undoubtedly remarkable, one drawback is the limited visiting time. Currently, visitors have only three hours to explore the museum, which may not be sufficient for a thorough exploration. It would be great if the visiting hours could be extended to at least six hours, from 10 AM to 4 PM and 3 PM to 7 PM, accommodating more visitors and allowing them ample time to absorb the details and fully appreciate the museum's offerings.

Overall, the Bangabandhu Military Museum is a rare and valuable attraction in Bangladesh that truly deserves recognition. Its significance, extensive collection, and educational value make it a must-visit destination for locals and...