The International Defense Exhibition, the first large-scale of its kind in Vietnam, opens in Hanoi today [Dec. 8], amid the country’s efforts to expand its defense capacity and partnership.

Held at an airport, the three-day event gathers 174 exhibitors from 30 countries, including Russia, the European nations, and the US who will attend the international conferences on digital transformation in the defense industry, defense partnership between Vietnam and other countries, and cooperation on defense industry between Vietnam and Japan.

Addressing the exhibition, Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said it would help “open up opportunities for cooperation in the defense industry and technology transfer” and “broaden the sources from which defense equipment is procured in order to protect the country and its citizens against growing traditional and non-traditional threats.”

He emphasized that Vietnam’s defense policy is peace, self-defense, and for the sake of people through an active role in bilateral and multilateral cooperation models.

Vietnam’s PM Pham Minh Chinh and National Defence Minister Phan Van Giang at the opening ceremony of the exhibition. Photos: VGP, QDND

Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Defense Minister Phan Van Giang attend the opening ceremony held in Hanoi on Dec 8.

Demonstration of fighter aircraft Su-30MK2 by Vietnam’s Air Force.

PM Chinh with international guests at the exhibition.

The event attracts exhibitors from 30 countries, including Europe, Russia, and the US.

Vietnam's military group Viettel at the expo.

Indoor exhibition.

Outdoor display.

Vietnamese soldiers in a performance.

Part of the event.

Checking before the opening ceremony.

Overview of the exhibition.