Vietnam is actively seeking to diversify its defense supplies, moving away from its historical reliance on Russian arms, which accounted for over 80% of its arms imports from 1995 to 2023. This shift comes in light of international sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, which have significantly impacted Vietnam's arms procurement options [94b95e8a].
At an arms fair held in Hanoi on December 19, 2024, major U.S. weapons manufacturers, including Boeing and Lockheed Martin, alongside European firms like Airbus and various Chinese companies, showcased their defense products. This expo featured 14 American companies and exhibitors from countries such as Germany, Iran, Israel, Ukraine, and Russia, highlighting the growing interest in Vietnam's defense market [94b95e8a].
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh characterized the expo as a message of peace and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of building international partnerships in defense [94b95e8a]. Nguyen Khac Giang from the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute pointed out that the reliance on Russian arms presents vulnerabilities for Vietnam, making diversification a strategic necessity [94b95e8a].
This arms diversification aligns with Vietnam's broader military modernization efforts, which have been underscored by recent arms deals with the United States, including the delivery of T-6C trainer aircraft. As Vietnam enhances its military capabilities, the implications for regional stability and its relationships with both the U.S. and China remain critical areas for observation [f323fd6d].
The evolving landscape of Vietnam's defense procurement reflects not only its strategic interests but also the shifting dynamics of international relations, as the country seeks to balance its partnerships amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region [0e367e88].