Hanoi: US Defense Secretary Peter Hegseth has arrived in Vietnam with the intention of strengthening military ties between the two nations. During his arrival, Hegseth emphasized the potential benefits of enhanced cooperation, particularly highlighting the ongoing projects involving the delivery of US military aircraft.
According to Thai News Agency, Hegseth, before his meeting with Vietnamese Defense Minister Phan Van Giang, stated that the US has already delivered three patrol boats and three T-6 trainer aircraft to Vietnam, as part of an order of 12 from the US. He reiterated the US's commitment to continuing these projects and expressed support for a strong and independent Vietnam. Vietnam's Ministry of Defense echoed this sentiment, noting that both governments have agreed to further promote security cooperation, including advancements in the defense industry.
Hegseth's visit to Hanoi follows a meeting with ASEAN counterparts in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In Vietnam, he is scheduled to meet with key figures including General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam, President Luong Cuong, and Defense Minister Phan Van Giang. The discussions are expected to focus primarily on US military aircraft, with specific mention of Lockheed Martin's C-130 transport plane and S-92 helicopter, as well as Boeing's Chinook transport helicopter.
Vietnam has been working to diversify its military equipment sources, which have predominantly been Russian. Although the US lifted its arms embargo on Vietnam in 2016, significant progress in negotiations has been seen during the Joe Biden administration, yet no formal agreements have been established to date.