JESSORE: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday said Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) attained worldwide fame for its discipline and professionalism.

Despite limitations, BAF is fulfilling four thousand flying hours yearly under the security programs of the United Nations, she added.

The premier made the observation while addressing the Winter President Parade of 70 Flight Cadet Course (FCC) of Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) at BAF Academy here in the morning.

She also said that her government is working to ensure the participation of BAF to the policy making level of the UN as well as to increase contingent to UN peace keeping missions.

Moreover, the premier asked the newly-commissioned BAF officers to reflect their firm commitment to “Keep Free the Sky of Bangla” in their work and thinking.

She said Bangladesh Air Force is a radiant with the divine grace of sacrifice of numerous heroes like Birshreshtha Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman and Shaheed Sergeant Zahurul Haque.

The premier, also ruling Awami League president, said, “Besides, you will have to keep in mind the history of sacrifice and struggle of millions of lives for the country’s independence.”

In her address, the PM said that five new MI-171 helicopters, nine basic training and 16 combat training aircrafts would be added to Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) fleet soon to build the BAF as a strong and efficient force.

She also said, “In the golden jubilee of independence, we would establish Bangladesh Air Force as a strong and efficient force strategically Insha Allah by its further modernization.”

Earlier, the PM reviewed the smartly turned-out parade and took salute at the impressive march past as chief guest. She also handed over trophies, certificates and flying badges among the flight cadets.

On her arrival at the BAF Academy Parade Ground, she was received by Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Muhammad Enamul Bari and Commandant of BAF Academy Air Commodore M Sayed Hossain.

Among others, ministers, parliament members, chief of Naval Staff, diplomats, high civil and military officials, local dignitaries and guardians of the flight cadets were also present.

Flight Cadet Wing Under Officer Dhrubo Sarker commanded the parade which was followed by a spectacular fly-past of different aircraft of BAF Academy.

BDST: 1538 HRS, DEC 31, 2014