Bangladesh has incorporated advanced anti-tank ammunition supplied by Spain into its military arsenal, marking a pivotal moment in the modernization of its armed forces. The delivery, made by Zaragoza-based arms manufacturer Instalaza, included Alcotan-100 (M2) anti-tank weapons. This acquisition was highlighted during the annual parade of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), signaling a significant strengthening of the country’s military preparedness as tensions in neighboring Myanmar continue to rise.
The Border Guard Bangladesh, together with the Bangladesh Army, has chosen to standardize these Spanish anti-tank weapons as part of a broader modernization effort. The Alcotan-100 (M2) system has gained international recognition for its performance, especially against Russian tanks in Ukraine, highlighting its capability against Russian/Soviet-origin armor, which is crucial for Bangladesh given its geopolitical context.
The Alcotan-100, designed and manufactured in Spain, is a rocket launcher characterized by its disposable launch system and a reusable sight unit. Designed for operation by a single person, it features an innovative design where the launch tube is single-use, while the sighting unit, called VOSEL, can be reused. This feature makes the Alcotan-100 both practical and economical for military forces.