IAF Chief AP Singh Begins Vietnam Visit to Strengthen India-Vietnam Defence Cooperation

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has embarked on a three-day visit to Vietnam to bolster bilateral defence cooperation between the Indian Air Force and the Vietnam People’s Air Force, the IAF said.

The visit underscores India’s strategic engagement with Southeast Asia at a time when New Delhi is deepening military partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region. Vietnam, a key partner in India’s Act East policy, has emerged as a critical ally in maintaining regional stability and freedom of navigation in contested waters.

India-Vietnam defence ties have expanded significantly over the past decade. The two nations conduct regular joint exercises, exchange high-level military delegations, and collaborate on training and capacity building. The IAF has participated in multilateral air exercises in the region, including those involving Vietnam, and both air forces have explored opportunities for operational cooperation and information sharing.

Vietnam operates a mix of Soviet-era and modern fighter aircraft including the Sukhoi Su-30MK2, MiG-29, and older MiG-21 variants. In recent years, Hanoi has modernised its air defence capabilities and inducted advanced radar systems. India’s defence engagement with Vietnam complements New Delhi’s broader strategy of supporting regional partners in building credible air defence and air superiority capabilities.

Such high-level visits typically cover wide-ranging topics including operational cooperation, training exchanges, logistics support, and coordination on regional security challenges. They also provide an opportunity for military leadership to align on shared strategic objectives in the Indian Ocean Region and South China Sea.

India’s defence outreach to Southeast Asia reflects its commitment to maintaining a stable, rules-based order and strengthening ties with nations that share concerns over unilateral actions and coercive practices in the region. Vietnam, which has faced significant pressure over disputed maritime claims, views defence partnerships with countries like India as essential to preserving strategic autonomy.

The IAF has progressively expanded its international engagement footprint, conducting bilateral exercises with air forces across Asia, the Middle East, and the West. Such interactions enhance interoperability, exchange best practices in operations and training, and build institutional relationships that support long-term strategic partnerships.