Vietnam has started building the biggest warship it has constructed domestically, with Sông Thu Corporation beginning work on a multi-purpose anti-submarine frigate in Da Nang.
The vessel is expected to be completed within 36 months. It is designed for submarine detection and engagement and will use a range of weapons and technologies developed in Vietnam.
The Vietnam People’s Navy will serve as the project owner and oversee the programme from design and production through system integration, trials, acceptance and final handover.
Construction formally began with a steel-cutting ceremony in Da Nang organised by Sông Thu Corporation and the Vietnam People’s Navy.
Vietnamese authorities said the country has developed the expertise required to design and construct the frigate domestically. Most of the weapons and equipment planned for installation on board have also been developed in Vietnam.
The ship will carry an active electronically scanned array radar, air-defence missiles and advanced anti-ship missiles.
Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group and factories under Vietnam’s General Department of Defence Industry will be responsible for missiles and other systems. Viettel and other defence research and manufacturing organisations will work with the navy and Sông Thu Corporation on the vessel’s weapons and onboard technical systems from development through installation.
Senior Lieutenant General Phạm Hoài Nam, Vietnam’s deputy minister of national defence, described the project as an important development for the country’s defence industry and military shipbuilding sector. He said it would support the development of key technologies and improve Vietnam’s ability to research, design and manufacture weapons and military equipment.
Nam also referred to a resolution issued by Vietnam’s 14th Party Central Committee on 28 July covering the country’s development as a strong maritime nation. He said Vietnam required a capable navy to protect sovereignty over its seas and islands and safeguard national interests at sea.
Vietnam’s defence industry policy focuses on self-reliance, self-sufficiency, resilience, dual-use capabilities and modernisation.
The country has already expanded its domestic naval construction capabilities through missile boats and patrol vessels. Its naval modernisation has also included Russian-built Kilo-class submarines and Gepard-class frigates.
A significant share of Vietnam’s military equipment has traditionally come from Russia. The frigate project forms part of efforts to increase domestic defence production and reduce reliance on imported equipment.
Vietnamese authorities said the new frigate will be the largest warship constructed in the country.
Defence authorities have been instructed to strengthen inspection and supervision during the programme and address problems that could disrupt construction.
Sông Thu Corporation has been directed to use available resources, improve production processes, develop technology and accelerate digital transformation while complying with technical procedures and safety requirements.
The company must also ensure that the vessel meets the required technical and aesthetic standards. Organisations working on weapons and other onboard systems have been instructed to keep their activities aligned with the shipbuilding schedule.
Vietnam is due to host the third Vietnam International Defence Expo in Hanoi in December as it seeks to expand domestic defence production and diversify the sources of its military equipment.
