India–Vietnam Military Partnership
The India–Vietnam military partnership is an emerging strategic alignment focused on regional stability, maritime security, and defense technology cooperation. As both nations seek to counter Chinese expansion in the South China Sea, their defense ties have expanded through joint naval exercises, military training, and arms sales. With India providing missile systems, defense training, and cybersecurity collaboration, Vietnam has become a key partner in India’s Act East policy and Indo-Pacific strategy.
History
- Cold War & Soviet-Aligned Security (1950s–1990s): Both India and Vietnam had close ties with the Soviet Union, leading to early defense cooperation.
- Strategic Partnership Formation (2007–2016): India and Vietnam formalized their defense partnership, increasing military training and naval coordination.
- Indo-Pacific Expansion & Defense Sales (2017–Present): India began exporting advanced missile systems and defense technology to Vietnam, enhancing joint maritime security.
Key Characteristics
- Defense Sales & Weapons Transfers: India has provided BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Vietnam, strengthening coastal defense against Chinese naval threats. Military training programs have expanded, with Vietnamese officers receiving training in Indian defense academies.
- Naval & Maritime Security Cooperation: Joint naval patrols and port visits enhance freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea. Vietnam supports India’s presence in ASEAN-led security initiatives, reinforcing regional deterrence efforts.
- Cybersecurity & Intelligence Sharing: Both nations collaborate on cyber defense, countering Chinese cyber warfare and disinformation campaigns. India provides technical assistance in Vietnam’s emerging cybersecurity infrastructure.
Strategic Importance
- Countering Chinese Naval Expansion: Vietnam sees India as a key security partner against Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea.
- Strengthening Indo-Pacific Security: The partnership enhances ASEAN-India strategic coordination in regional defense planning.
- Defense Industry Expansion: India’s military sales to Vietnam support its goal of becoming a major global arms exporter.
Links
- India-Vietnam Strategic Defense Cooperation
- BrahMos Missile Sales to Vietnam
- South China Sea & India-Vietnam Naval Exercises