Defense manufacturers from the United States, Russia, and China, among others, will exhibit their weaponry at the Vietnam Defence Expo 2024. 

The event, which will be held in Hanoi from December 19 to 22, promises to be a high-profile platform for showcasing cutting-edge defense technology. This reflects Vietnam’s growing importance in global arms diplomacy.

The exhibition, organized by Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defence, will cover 10,530 square meters, which marks a significant expansion from the previous year.  

With over 200 companies from 27 countries confirmed to attend, the expo will feature an impressive array of military hardware, including advanced systems from nations like China and Iran, both making their debut at the event. Israel will also participate in the 2024 Vietnam Defence Expo 2024. 

Excitement is building as videos of preparations circulate online. Footage of the Vietnam People’s Air Force rehearsing for the opening ceremony has surfaced, featuring Sukhoi Su-30MK2 multi-role fighters and Mi-8/17 helicopters engaging in maneuvers, flag displays, and countermeasure demonstrations. 

The 2024 event promises to captivate attendees with a blend of state-of-the-art technology and interactive experiences. The 2024 expo will highlight innovative display technologies such as 3D mapping, virtual reality (VR), and interactive digital models. 

Among the standout features are VR reenactments of Vietnam’s historic Điện Biên Phủ and Hồ Chí Minh campaigns, immersing visitors in key battles such as the Mường Thanh Field assault and the tanks’ iconic entry into Independence Palace.

A virtual exhibition platform will also enable attendees to explore 3D-digitized models of featured defense equipment, offering a blend of traditional and modern exhibition experiences.

Nonetheless, media interest in the event is high because the U.S., China, and Russia will showcase their military equipment, all likely aiming for a share in Vietnam’s defense industry at this high-stakes event. 

Vietnam, a communist party-run country, has long depended on Russia for its military hardware. However, the country has sought to diversify its defense suppliers in recent years. This shift has allowed Chinese and U.S. weapon manufacturers to compete for Vietnam’s growing defense needs. 

On the other hand, Moscow, facing the compounded effects of Western sanctions, will be striving to maintain its stronghold in Vietnam, a key customer for its fighter jets and helicopters.

Which Weapons Will Russia, U.S. & China Showcase? 

Russia is eagerly waiting to showcase its military equipment at the exhibition. 

For the first time outside Russia, Moscow will present full-scale models of the Rubezh-ME coastal missile system, the BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle with added protection, and the Typhoon-K armored vehicle with the Kornet-EM anti-tank missile system.

Rosoboronexport’s Director General, Alexander Mikheev, confirmed the debut of these systems, which have been modified for modern combat. The Rubezh-ME system integrates transport containers, radars, fire control, communication, and combat control devices on a single platform, forming a “missile boat on wheels” concept.

Additionally, the Typhoon-K armored vehicle offers improved protection and mobility. The BMP-3, modified based on combat experience, is equipped with defensive capabilities to counter modern threats such as drones and anti-tank missiles. The vehicle also features video surveillance and robotic support. 

Rosoboronexport will also unveil the Lancet-E unmanned system for the first time in Southeast Asia at the event, alongside other UAVs like the Orlan-10E and Orlan-30 and loitering ammunition systems such as the Kub-E.

On the other hand, the United States will display an array of military equipment, including a C-130 aircraft, two A-10 aircraft, a Stryker armored vehicle, and an M777 howitzer, covering a substantial 3,000 square meters of exhibition space. 

All these weapon systems highlight the U.S.’s advanced military capabilities and its strategic interest in engaging with Southeast Asia’s defense sector.

In addition to the military equipment, U.S. defense industry giants Boeing and Lockheed Martin will also have booths at the expo, showcasing their cutting-edge technologies. Lockheed Martin is already engaged in advanced discussions with Vietnam to supply several C-130 Hercules military transport planes.  

Meanwhile, China will participate in the event for the first time. Although it remains unclear which specific weapons or technologies Chinese companies will showcase, their presence underscores China’s efforts to grow its influence in the region’s defense market.  

Among the Chinese participants is the Norinco Group, the state-owned defense manufacturer subject to U.S. sanctions. Norinco gained media attention last year when reports surfaced suggesting that Hamas had used its assault rifles in the Israel-Hamas conflict. 

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