The Vietnam International Defense Expo 2024 concluded with the signing of 16 contracts valued at approximately $286.3 million and 17 strategic cooperation agreements between Vietnam’s defense industry and international enterprises from nations such as the United States, India, France, and Belgium. These agreements spotlight Vietnam’s growing presence in the global defense sector.

Vietnam’s upgraded 5P73-VT missile launcher drew interest from visitors. Photo: An Dang/VNA

Held from December 19 to 23 at Gia Lam Airport in Hanoi, the event hosted 242 exhibitors across 100,000 square meters, presenting cutting-edge products and technologies. The General Department of Defense Industry and Viettel Group played pivotal roles in securing orders for infantry weapons, naval vessels, and dual-use explosives, demonstrating Vietnam’s capability in defense manufacturing and innovation.

Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien, Deputy Minister of National Defense, and Senior Lieutenant General Phung Si Tan, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army, praised the expo’s success during the closing conference on December 22. They highlighted the agreements as a testament to Vietnam’s ability to foster meaningful collaborations with global partners while advancing its defense industry.

The electronic equipment displayed by Viettel Group at the Vietnam International Defense Expo 2024.

The event drew over 260,000 attendees, including defense professionals and the general public. Advanced technologies were utilized to enhance the presentation, with more than 440 booths displaying fighter jets, naval vessels, unmanned aerial vehicles, and cybersecurity solutions.

Vietnam showcased 68 military equipment types in use by its armed forces, including the VCM-B anti-ship missile complex. Domestically produced defense-industrial products totaled 464, an increase of 155 items compared to the 2022 exhibition.

Organizers ensured smooth operations, mobilizing nearly 10,000 personnel for logistics and security, installing 200 surveillance cameras, and distributing over 60,000 bottles of water and ration packs to attendees. Workshops and seminars provided platforms for discussions on defense strategies and innovations, further elevating the expo’s significance.

A formation of Su-30MK2 fighter jets from the Vietnam Air Force performs an aerial display. Photo: Van Diep/VNA

The Vietnam International Defense Expo 2024 exceeded expectations, reinforcing the nation’s role as a reliable partner in global defense cooperation. It showcased Vietnam’s technological and industrial advancements while strengthening its defense diplomacy. The event showed the country’s commitment to innovation and collaboration, marking a significant step forward for its defense industry.