A United Nations (UN) chartered Antonov-124 left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport here for Bangui, the capital city of CAR with the helicopters that are equipped with sophisticated night vision technology, other equipment and two airmen at 0533 hours on Saturday, says a media release of Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) directorate.

Previously, 123 members of the contingent were deployed in the mission area by a UN chartered aircraft operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines on May 29.

This contingent was the first one which was deployed from Rapid Deployment Level (RDL) of UN Peacekeeping Capabilities Readiness System (PCRS).

Mentionable that, Bangladesh is the first member country of UN to send a contingent from RDL. This endeavour reflects the strong commitment of Bangladesh towards world peace and security.

The members of the BAF have been performing their duties in various UN Peacekeeping missions with utmost efficiency, professionalism and sincerity in mitigating the conflict. Despite the global outbreak of the Coronavirus, the BAF sent its contingent to CAR.

The helicopters will be attached to the Bangladesh Medium Armed Military Helicopter Unit  there. With advanced technologies and skilled manpower, the Helicopter Unit is expected to play a more effective role in support of the MINUSMA mandate towards resolving the conflict in the CAR.

Earlier, the Chief of Air Staff of Bangladesh Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Masihuzzaman Serniabat, gave necessary briefings to the Air Force contingent members going to the CAR and participated in special Munajat for the success of the mission on May 28.

While addressing, Chief of Air Staff advised them to carry out their duties with honesty, professionalism and sincerity and bring honour for Bangladesh Air Force as well as for the country.