Vietnam is advancing its naval capabilities by beginning the keel-laying ceremony for a new multipurpose anti-submarine frigate at Song Thu Shipyard in Da Nang. This is the largest and most modern warship ever built domestically, equipped with self-developed key weapon systems and technology, underscoring the policy of fostering self-reliance in the defense industry.
On 10 August, Song Thu Corporation, under the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense, together with related agencies, held a ceremony to begin construction of a new multipurpose anti-submarine frigate for the Vietnamese Navy in Da Nang. This project is recorded as the largest and most advanced warship ever designed and built entirely within the country, taking over 36 months for preparation and design.
According to reports from Quan Doi Nhan Dan, the military's newspaper, this project marks a significant step in defense technology self-reliance. Most of the equipment, weapons, and control systems are developed, enhanced, or assembled domestically through close collaboration among the Navy, Song Thu Shipyard, the military telecommunications and technology network Viettel, and other national defense research units.
Lieutenant General Pham Hoai Nam, Deputy Minister of Defense, revealed at the ceremony that this new anti-submarine frigate is a modern warship specifically designed to detect and destroy submarines. The vessel will be equipped with a Phased-Array radar, advanced air defense missiles, and anti-ship missiles developed by the Viettel group and factories under the Department of Defense Industry. It represents the highest proportion of domestic parts and technology ever used in a warship.
Lieutenant General Pham Hoai Nam also emphasized the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee's Resolution 20 on developing Vietnam into a strong maritime nation. He stated that amid rapidly changing global and regional situations, Vietnam must build a modern and technologically sovereign military to sustainably protect its maritime sovereignty and islands.
Over past decades, the Vietnamese Navy has steadily modernized, previously relying on imported major weaponry from Russia, such as Kilo-class submarines and Gepard-class frigates. However, Vietnam has sought to reduce foreign dependence by expanding domestic manufacturing capabilities, evidenced by domestically built coastal patrol vessels and missile-armed fast attack boats.
Additionally, Vietnam is scheduled to host the 3rd International Defense Expo in Hanoi this December to demonstrate the capabilities of its defense industry and to broaden cooperation with diverse international partners.