Vietnam showcases full military power in historic parade
For the first time, Vietnam’s army, navy and air force marched together in the National Day parade, showcasing modern weaponry and military strength while underscoring the nation’s commitment to sovereignty and peace.
THE HANOI TIMES — The celebration of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19, 1945 – August 19, 2025) and the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025) today marked the first time all three branches of the Vietnam People’s Army – air force, navy and land forces – took part in a national parade.
The ceremony begins with a striking formation of Mi-171, Mi-17, and Mi-8 helicopters carrying the National Flag and the Party Flag, soaring above the historic Ba Dinh Square. Photo: Vietnam News Agency
The scene symbolizes the great unity of the Vietnamese nation and the pride of both the Party and the people. It also reflects the strength, wisdom, and aspirations of Vietnam to rise high and advance in the new era. Photo: Vietnam News Agency
From Gia Lam Airport in Hanoi, a formation of three transport aircraft – a Casa C-295 and two Casa C-212s – join the flight over Ba Dinh Square. These aircraft demonstrate their roles in combat coordination, reconnaissance, transport, and search and rescue missions. Photo: VGP
The air parade also features six Yak-130 aircraft. These modern, multi-role training jets can operate in all weather conditions, day and night, and are capable of reconnaissance and precision strikes against targets on air, land, and sea.
The highlight of the skies was the formation of Su-30MK2 fighter jets, the pride and core strength of the Vietnam People’s Air Force. These supersonic, multi-role fighters are designed to operate in every weather condition. Known as the “steel shield,” they stand as a powerful guardian of the country’s sovereignty. Photo: VGP
The Su-30MK2 and Yak-130 squadrons impress the crowds by releasing dazzling flares over the skies of the capital during the parade rehearsal for National Day. Photo: VGP
Leaders from the Navy Command, Border Guard, and Coast Guard take part in the parade review. Rear Admiral Nguyen Van Bach, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Navy (middle), command the naval parade forces. Photo: VGP
Officers and sailors perform the flag salute ceremony before departing on duty. Onboard the Kilo-class submarine 630, crew members carry out the flag-raising ritual before setting off, symbolizing the determination and readiness of Vietnam’s maritime forces. Photo: VGP
On the ground, the Vietnam People’s Army showcases upgraded T-54B tanks, modern T-90S tanks, amphibious armored vehicles and self-propelled artillery. Photo: VGP
The military vehicles also include BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, Scud-B strategic missiles, and the Truong Son missile system developed by the Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group. Photo: VGP
In addition, the S-125-VT air defense missile system, researched, modernized, and upgraded by Viettel, is present as part of Vietnam’s growing defense technology capabilities. Photo: VGP
In the security sector, the parade features armored bulletproof vehicles, counter-terrorism combat vehicles, and specialized fire trucks for firefighting, rescue, and emergency response. Photo: VGP
This historic parade demonstrates Vietnam’s full-spectrum military strength, and showcases the determination of its armed forces to safeguard independence, defend sovereignty, and protect peace in the new era. Photo: VGP
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