Global Arms Race Unfolds in Vietnam as Nations Scramble for Defense Contracts

HANOI: The international arms industry is making a fierce play for Vietnam’s defense budget as the country seeks to reduce its longstanding dependence on Russia for military supplies. A recent expo held in Hanoi attracted over 200 firms from 30 nations, including not only Russia but also China, the United States, Iran, Israel, and India, highlighting the growing global competition for Vietnam's defense dollars.

Organized by Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense, the expo concluded with local businesses securing contracts worth over US$286 million—double the amount obtained during the previous event in 2022. A total of 17 cooperation agreements were signed, indicating a robust push for military modernization.

However, the significance of the event transcends mere business agreements. Nguyen Khac Giang, a visiting fellow at Singapore's ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, emphasized that the expo symbolized Vietnam's willingness to collaborate with various global partners amid complex geopolitical tensions. The participation of rival nations such as Iran and Israel, as well as the United States and China, showcased Vietnam's diplomatic acumen in navigating these intricate relationships.

China's Role in the Arms Race

A notable participant was the Norinco Group, a major state-owned Chinese defense conglomerate. Nguyen pointed out that China’s presence is a critical indicator of its desire to maintain influence within Vietnam's military sphere, despite ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Vietnam has significantly strengthened its military posture in the Spratly Islands, directly countering China's expansive territorial claims.

Timing also mattered; during the expo, China conducted military drills in waters overlapping with Vietnam's exclusive economic zone, signaling Beijing’s continued assertiveness in the region. This development underlined the challenges Vietnam faces as it seeks to enhance its defense capabilities while managing its complex relationship with its northern neighbor.

Growing U.S.-Vietnam Military Ties

As Vietnam explores new partnerships, its ties with the United States are steadily deepening. The two nations are set to finalize an agreement for the sale of C-130 military transport aircraft, which signifies a substantial shift in military cooperation. U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam, Marc Knapper, affirmed that the goal is to ensure Vietnam can adequately protect its interests across various domains—land, sea, air, and cyberspace.

Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Samuel Paparo, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the potential for improved cooperation in maritime security operations to bolster both countries’ defense capabilities.

Despite the optimism surrounding U.S.-Vietnam relations, experts caution that it may take decades for Vietnam to fully modernize its military capabilities with American technology. The higher costs of U.S. weaponry compared to alternatives from Russia and other countries pose significant barriers. Additionally, historical sentiments linger, as many Vietnamese remember that American weapons were used against them during the Vietnam War.

The Future of Vietnam's Defense Landscape

In summary, the recent expo was more than just a trade event; it marked Vietnam's strategic pivot toward diversifying its defense partnerships in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. With tensions simmering in the region, the competition for Vietnam's defense dollars is set to intensify, proving that the stakes are high and the global arms race is far from over.

As the dust settles from the expo, one question lingers: How will Vietnam navigate the complexities of defense partnerships while striving to bolster its military autonomy? Keep an eye on this evolving story, as Vietnam makes its presence felt on the world defense stage!