Vietnam is set to make a significant splash in the global arms industry. The country will host an international arms fair in Hanoi, showcasing its domestically produced weapons and aiming to boost its defense industry and potentially expand its military exports. This event, featuring nearly 250 exhibitors, signifies Vietnam’s growing ambition in the global defense market. The fair brings together an impressive array of international players, from the United States, Europe, and Turkey, to countries currently involved in conflicts, including Israel, Iran, Russia, and Ukraine. This diverse representation underscores the complexities of the global arms trade and the strategic importance of Vietnam’s position in Southeast Asia.
For years, Vietnam has been a major importer of weapons, particularly from Russia. This reflects the nation’s investment in bolstering its defense capabilities in a region marked by geopolitical instability, particularly concerning ongoing territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea. However, a shift in strategy is underway. Vietnam’s focus is now on strengthening its domestic defense industry and promoting the export of its military products. This is a clear priority for Vietnamese defense ministry officials. State-owned companies like Viettel are leading the charge, showcasing advanced weaponry at the fair. This includes missile defense systems, drones, air defense radars, armored vehicles, and artillery. Some of these weapons systems will be unveiled for the first time, highlighting Vietnam’s progress in technological development.
According to Nguyen The Phuong, a security expert at Australia’s University of New South Wales, a key strategy for Vietnam’s advancement in this sector has been the establishment of partnerships with foreign arms manufacturers. The production of components in Vietnam through these foreign collaborations significantly reduces reliance on imports and contributes to the development of local expertise. Discussions are currently underway with South Korean firms regarding potential collaborations focusing on artillery and aviation technologies. Similar talks are in progress with other countries, such as the Czech Republic, underlining Vietnam’s proactive approach to international cooperation.
The Hanoi arms fair is noteworthy for the notable presence of competitors from various countries. Iran’s defense ministry will have a substantial presence at the fair, situated not far from prominent Israeli defense firms like Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. This proximity highlights the complex dynamics of the global arms market and the presence of rivals at the event. Additionally, there will be a significant representation from Russia, Turkey, and even Ukraine, underscoring the international reach and competitiveness of the event. The inclusion of Norinco, a leading Chinese defense company, represents a noteworthy development. This is the first time a Chinese defense firm has participated in a Vietnamese defense fair. This development suggests improved relations between the two countries. Meanwhile, major U.S. defense companies such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Textron Aviation Defense will be present, all engaged in discussions with Vietnamese authorities regarding potential sales of helicopters and transport aircraft. Embraer from Brazil and leading European defense companies such as Airbus, BAE Systems, Rheinmetall, Leonardo, and Thales Group will further add to the international participation of the event.
The Hanoi arms fair is more than just an exhibition; it’s a significant step in Vietnam’s ambition to become a key player in the global arms industry. By promoting its domestic defense industry and establishing partnerships with international manufacturers, Vietnam is strategically positioning itself to meet both its national defense needs and pursue export opportunities. The event’s diverse participation further reflects the dynamic and complex nature of the global arms trade.
