The Bangladesh Air Force Base at Kurmitola, Dhaka Cantonment, has been renamed “Bangladesh Air Force Base Bir Uttam AK Khandker.”
The renaming ceremony took place on Thursday at the Kurmitola Air Force Base, according to a press release issued by the Directorate of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan attended the event as the chief guest.
In his speech, the chief of air staff paid deep respect to the valiant freedom fighters who made the ultimate sacrifice for Bangladesh’s independence, as well as to all the martyrs of the July-August uprising.
He also solemnly remembered Air Vice Marshal AK Khandker, Bir Uttam—a fearless hero of the Liberation War and a distinguished figure in the nation’s history—whose exemplary contributions inspired the renaming of the base in his honour.
Air Vice Marshal AK Khandker, Bir Uttam, was not only a courageous freedom fighter but also a visionary leader who played a pioneering role in the formation of the Bangladesh Air Force.
His unwavering dedication, strategic foresight, and indomitable spirit during the Liberation War of 1971 have continued to inspire the nation.
As the deputy chief of staff of the Mukti Bahini, he played a crucial role in coordinating the efforts that led to Bangladesh’s victory in the war of liberation.
Following independence, he was appointed the first chief of air staff. Under his capable leadership, he successfully reorganized the war-torn Air Force.
By renaming the base in his honour, the Bangladesh Air Force pays tribute to his contributions to the establishment and development of the force, recognizing both his legacy and that of his successors, the ISPR said.
In recognition of his bravery and patriotism during the Liberation War, Air Vice Marshal AK Khandker was awarded the gallantry title "Bir Uttam" by the government of Bangladesh.
Additionally, for his remarkable contributions to the Liberation War, the restructuring of the Bangladesh Air Force, and the nation-building process, he was honoured with the Independence Award in 2011.
Family members of Air Vice Marshal AK Khandker, Bir Uttam, attended the renaming ceremony as special guests.
