Vietnam eyes F‑16 deal to modernise air force fleet
Vietnam is considering the acquisition of 24 F-16 fighter jets from the US, as it seeks to bolster its air force, according to the Zona Militar portal.
Vietnam is nearing the completion of a deal to purchase 24 F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets from the United States. The aim is to modernise the air force, which has historically depended on Russian and Soviet equipment. Vietnam currently operates aircraft such as the Su-27 and Su-30 fighters, alongside older Su-22s that are due for replacement.
Strengthening US-Vietnam relations
Since President Barack Obama visited Hanoi in 2016, ties between the USA and Vietnam have grown considerably stronger. The lifting of the embargo on military equipment sales has allowed Vietnam to purchase items such as the T-6C Texan II training aircraft. The current US administration is continuing negotiations regarding the sale of F-16s, which began in 2023. This would enable Vietnam to make significant changes to its arsenal, gradually moving from Russian weapons to American ones.
Modern fighter jets for Vietnam
The proposed purchase includes the newest version of the F-16 Block 70/72, manufactured by Lockheed Martin. These models have been recently delivered to Bahrain, Slovakia, Bulgaria, and Taiwan. While the deal has yet to receive official confirmation from the White House or the Pentagon, its execution aligns with the US strategy to counter China's expanding influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The F-16 Block 70/72 represents a substantial upgrade over earlier variants. It boasts advanced avionics, including the APG-83 SABR radar with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) antenna. Furthermore, the aircraft is outfitted with a contemporary pilot cockpit, featuring a large central display known as the Centre Pedestal Display. It also benefits from a high-bandwidth data bus and modern electronic warfare systems, making it one of the most technologically advanced models in its category.
