Aviation News – The Vietnamese Defence Ministry is reportedly targeting the acquisition of Russian Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft by the early 2030s. This potential procurement marks a significant step in Vietnam’s long-term strategy to modernize its air defense and replace its aging Soviet-era combat fleet.
Local sources indicate that the move is designed to phase out a portion of the country’s Su-27 fourth-generation air superiority fighters and approximately 30 Su-22 third-generation strike fighters. This transition comes as regional security dynamics evolve, prompting Hanoi to seek superior aerial capabilities to maintain its strategic deterrent. The interest in the Su-57 reflects Vietnam’s historical reliance on Russian defense technology and its desire for advanced stealth technology.
The Su-57, Russia’s most advanced multirole combat jet, represents a massive leap in capability over the platforms currently in Vietnamese service. Discussions regarding this fifth-generation upgrade have gained momentum as Vietnam evaluates its defense budget for the next decade. By integrating these high-performance jets, the Vietnamese People’s Air Force aims to bridge the technological gap between its existing inventory and the sophisticated platforms being deployed by neighboring powers.
Technically, the Su-57 features stealth airframe characteristics and supercruise capabilities, allowing it to fly at supersonic speeds without using afterburners. Its AESA radar and advanced sensor fusion provide a drastic improvement in situational awareness, enabling the pilot to engage multiple threats simultaneously. Operationally, the addition of these jets would provide Vietnam with a versatile platform capable of both air-to-air dominance and high-precision ground strikes.