Vietnam has started work on its biggest warship. It is a brand new anti submarine warship designed by local engineers. This project marks a giant step for the nation. The nation wants to build its own strong military. It also aims to rely less on foreign suppliers.
The new warship is being built in the coastal city of Da Nang. Officials held a steel cutting event to start the work. A military yard called Song Thu Corporation is leading the work. Engineers are working hard to complete the project on time. The team expects to take 36 months to finish construction.
This vehicle is a multipurpose anti submarine warship. It will carry many advanced tools. The ship will feature a modern radar system. It will carry air defense missiles and anti ship missiles. Workers will install torpedo launchers to hit targets under the sea. The ship will also have a flight deck for a maritime helicopter.
Local firms will supply most of the high tech systems. State firm Viettel Group will build key weapons and combat controls. Home military factories will build other essential parts. Local scientists and tech teams are working side by side. They want to master core defense skills at home.
The Vietnam People’s Navy is directing the whole plan. Navy teams will supervise how each system fits together. They will run sea tests and check all safety rules. Once ready, the ship will join the fleet for real missions.
Senior Lieutenant General Pham Hoai Nam spoke at the event. He serves as deputy minister of national defense. He said a strong nation needs a capable navy. He noted that a good navy protects national seas and islands. The fleet must also protect national interests at sea.
The program follows a key party resolution passed in late July. The resolution calls for expanding maritime defense capabilities. Vietnam has ongoing sea boundary disputes with neighboring countries. Building a home defense sector helps secure vital trade routes and coasts.
For many years, the nation bought most of its arms from Russia. Now, Hanoi seeks to modernize its forces with local technology. Designing an indigenous anti submarine warship proves the country can build complex gear. It strengthens national pride and boosts local technical skills.
The 3,000 ton warship will be a powerful asset at sea. It will track sub threats and patrol deep waters. The vessel will also protect key maritime zones day and night.
Shipbuilders in Da Nang have vast experience with military craft. They have crafted many smaller military vessels in recent decades. However, this new surface combatant is their largest project so far. The yard will follow strict rules to ensure high quality.
The naval team will work closely with Viettel engineers. They will test every sensor and weapon before sea trials. This unity speeds up production while keeping costs under control.
The project highlights a clear shift in defense policy. Vietnam wants a self-reliant defense industry. By producing its own military hardware, the nation builds long term security. It also builds a safer economic future for its maritime zones.
Over the next three years, all eyes will be on Da Nang. Shipbuilders will weld the hull and fit heavy gear. Tech crews will wire radar units and launch pads. When finished, the frigate will start sea patrols.
This anti submarine warship marks a major victory for local defense tech. It proves the nation can design and build complex warships. The vessel will serve as a shield for sovereign waters for decades to come.
