Bangladeshi-American Shariful Khan Promoted Brigadier General

Bangladeshi-origin officer Shariful M. Khan has been promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in the United States Air Force. He officially assumed his new role on August 20.

Khan was among the officers nominated by former U.S. President Donald Trump in June for promotion to Major General and Brigadier General ranks. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, Trump had nominated 15 officers for Major General and 55 officers for Brigadier General.

As per the U.S. Air Force website, Brigadier General Shariful Khan currently serves as Staff Director of the Pentagon’s highly significant “Golden Dome for America” program. In this capacity, he oversees strategy, policy, planning, and cross-functional coordination for initiatives linked to the Golden Dome—an advanced missile defense system designed to surpass Israel’s Iron Dome in strength. The system aims to shield U.S. territory from any incoming attacks. Former President Trump announced progress on the Golden Dome project in May, placing Khan at the forefront of its implementation.

Shariful Khan was commissioned in 1997 after graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy. Over his career, he has gained operational expertise in space control, space systems, satellite operations, and assignments with the National Reconnaissance Office.

Khan also served in Kuwait’s Ali Al Salem Air Base in 2001 and again in 2007, where he took command roles in Operation Silent Sentry.

His promotion marks a significant milestone for Bangladeshi-origin professionals in the U.S. military, underscoring their growing presence in leadership positions.