MODERN OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY THROUGH DECEPTION AND DETERRENCE: A STRATEGIC APPRAISAL FOR THE BANGLADESH ARMY

Abstract

The research evaluates how modern decoy systems would work as a defence strategy for the Bangladesh Army to improve its deterrence capabilities against advanced enemies. The research investigates how Bangladesh lacks both decoy stockpiles and operational guidelines for its military forces even though other nations use decoy systems to defend against advanced surveillance and precision-strike technology. The research combines literature reviews with conflict case studies of Ukraine, Armenia-Azerbaijan Wars and expert military professional interviews to evaluate both practicality and operational value. The research shows that present-day inflatable and heat-emitting decoys create substantial protection for military forces through their ability to confuse enemy surveillance systems and redirect precision-guided missiles while hiding actual military assets. The systems create psychological effects on enemies while providing affordable force multiplication benefits during operations in challenging terrain such as the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) and southeastern frontier zones. The research also displays that deploying advanced decoy systems with electronic countermeasures and adaptive camouflage technology provide Bangladesh with an affordable method to boost its defensive capabilities during hybrid warfare conflicts. The research indicated that multiple barriers exist which prevent the military from adopting decoy systems at scale. The main constraint to decoy system adoption stems from insufficient funding which hinders continuous procurement, research and development activities, the military’s lack of trained experts in deception operations and decoy technology and finally, insufficient facilities for testing and training. The operational need for decoys has not led to faster institutional change because of these organizational barriers. The implementation of decoy systems as a national defence strategy depends on strategic partnerships, capacity development and doctrinal updates to overcome current structural constraints. The implementation of decoy systems as a fundamental defence element would boost Bangladesh military’s operational efficiencies and defensive capabilities.