Dutch-Designed Vietnamese Coast Guard Vessels Join Exercise With Philippines

Almost eight years after the United States ended its arms embargo with Vietnam, the country exercised with a major American ally, the Philippines. During the exercises, Vietnam trained with the Filipino Coast Guard in exercises that focused on fire prevention and search and rescue [Reuters]. 

Since the arms embargo was lifted in 2016 and several American defence firms visited Vietnam’s international defence expo in 2022, Vietnam has steadily acquired Western equipment. Most notably, Vietnam already operates two US-made Hamilton-class cutters and 24 Metal Shark patrol boats [Fulcrum]. Hanoi also operates a handful of Dutch Offshore Patrol Vessels designed by Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding [Damen]. 

Additionally, discussions are underway about Vietnam acquiring helicopters, jets, and drones from American manufacturers [Reuters].