Hathazari, Chattogram: Two Bangladesh Army tank crew members were killed and an officer injured after a Chinese-origin Type 59 tank reportedly exploded during a firing exercise in Hathazari, Chattogram.

The injured officer was taken to Chittagong Combined Military Hospital (CMH) for treatment. The incident occurred during a routine firing exercise, although the exact circumstances behind the tank explosion have not yet been established.

The Type 59 is a Chinese-produced main battle tank derived from the Soviet T-54A design and has been in service with the Bangladesh Army for several decades. Bangladesh operates a fleet of Type 59 tanks alongside more modern armoured platforms.

The explosion raises questions about the condition and safety of ageing armoured platforms during live-fire exercises. However, it is too early to determine whether the incident was caused by a technical malfunction, ammunition-related issue or another factor.

Authorities are expected to investigate the incident to determine the precise cause of the explosion and establish whether any equipment or operational factors contributed to the deaths.

Casualties reported:

  • 2 tank crew members — killed
  • 1 Army officer — injured
  • Injured officer shifted to Chittagong CMH

Further details are awaited from the Bangladesh Army regarding the incident and the identities of the casualties.