On November 20, 2024, Vietnam received its first five Beechcraft T-6C Texan II trainer aircraft in a ceremony attended by U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, U.S. Pacific Air Forces Commander General Kevin B. Schneider, and Vietnam Air Defense Air Force (ADAF) Commander Lieutenant General Nguyen Van Hien. This milestone delivery is part of a broader plan to supply 12 T-6C aircraft by 2025, aligning with Vietnam’s modernization objectives and enhancing its self-reliant defense capabilities under the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).
The T-6C Texan II is a next-generation turboprop aircraft designed to prepare pilots for diverse missions, including advanced combat training for platforms such as the F-16. These aircraft will be stationed at the 920 Regiment in Phan Thiet Military Airport, where they will support the training of Vietnam’s future pilots, enhancing their operational readiness and interoperability with U.S. and allied forces. This acquisition reflects Vietnam’s ongoing strategy to diversify its defense partnerships beyond Soviet-era equipment.
The delivery also signals the potential for future defense industry deals, including advanced fighter jets like the F-16, further solidifying defense cooperation between the two nations. The T-6C handover is part of broader efforts to deepen U.S.-Vietnam defense ties under the CSP.
The increased defense cooperation between the two nations has been evident in a series of recent engagements this year, including the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge and the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche made port calls at Cam Ranh in July. During the meeting between Vietnam's Minister of National Defence, General Phan Van Giang, and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III in September, the two discussed these developments and opportunities to advance defense trade, industrial base resilience, and information sharing.
Vietnam is making notable efforts to modernize its defense sector, focusing on self-reliance, versatility, and advanced technology. The country will host its second Vietnam International Defence Expo from December 19 to 22, 2024. The event will feature 250 exhibitors from 50 countries, showcasing cutting-edge military technologies. Building on the success of the inaugural 2022 Expo, which drew 175 companies and 25,000 visitors, the 2024 event will provide a valuable platform for Vietnam to explore global trends in defense technology, aiding the selection and enhancement of its military capabilities.
