Modern military equipment ‘Made in Vietnam’ introduced for the first time

For the first time, modern military equipment researched and produced by Vietnam itself, such as long-range multi-purpose UAVs and powerful self-propelled artillery, was displayed by the Ministry of National Defense at the “80 Years of Independence – Freedom – Happiness” exhibition.

On the morning of August 28, the “80 Years of Independence – Freedom – Happiness” exhibition officially opened at the National Exhibition Fair Center (Dong Anh, Hanoi).

This is the largest-scale exhibition ever held, with the full participation of 28 ministries and central agencies, 34 localities, and more than 110 major enterprises and economic groups, featuring over 230 booths covering the entire exhibition center area.

Notably, for the first time, weapons and military equipment researched, developed, and manufactured entirely by Vietnam were showcased.

Among them is the VU-MALE unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), researched and produced by the Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group.

According to publicly available information at the exhibition, this is a multifunctional, long-range, strategic-level UAV capable of carrying out missions such as real-time reconnaissance, target designation, electronic surveillance, information relay, and precision strikes thanks to its multi-payload capability.

In particular, with its ability to operate continuously for extended periods (over 24 hours) and its large operational range, this UAV stands out for its capacity to perform missions across diverse terrains—from mainland and border areas to seas and islands—even under complex weather conditions.

The UAV has a wingspan of 17 meters, a length of 8.5 meters, a maximum takeoff weight of 1,500 kg, a payload capacity of up to 500 kg, a cruising speed range of 140–180 km/h, a maximum speed of 200 km/h, and a service ceiling of 10 km.

It can be equipped with electro-optical systems, radar, electronic warfare devices, weapons (missiles, smart bombs), and communication transport systems.

UAV này có sải cánh 17m, dài 8,5m

Cận cảnh động cơ của UAV

This UAV can carry radar, missiles, smart bombs, and serve as a communication relay.

Another noteworthy piece of equipment making its first public debut is the 152mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer.

According to official statements, this product is entirely manufactured and modernized in Vietnam. It is a heavy ground artillery system designed for indirect fire, featuring powerful firepower, high mobility, and the ability to provide long-range fire support for infantry and armored units.

This self-propelled howitzer is equipped with a 152mm cannon, a ballistic computer and fire-control system, electronic warfare capabilities, a 12.7mm automatic anti-aircraft gun, a  laser warning system, smoke grenade launchers, a communications system, and a power supply and distribution system.

Weighing about 34 tons, it can travel at speeds of up to 70 km/h, has a firing rate of 4 rounds per minute, and operates with a crew of 5–6 personnel.

In addition to the equipment mentioned above, the Ministry of National Defense also showcased many other modern weapons, systems, and gear such as rocket propulsion engines, jet turbine engines, firearms, and various types of robots.