Russian Newspaper Commented when the US Introduced F-16 to Vietnam

11 Oktober 2019

F-16 Block 70/72 at DSE 2019 (photo : Duy Le)

At the DSE 2019 National Defense - Security Exhibition, Lockheed Martin Group brought to F-16 Block 70/72 fighter model for the purpose of introducing in Vietnam.

The need for the Vietnam People's Air Force for a light fighter with a low-cost engine to replace the retired MiG-21 is becoming increasingly urgent.

Unfortunately, Russia is no longer producing fighters that meet our needs, as their fighters are both heavyweight engines, so there is a need to find resources. offers from other partners.

Among the potential candidates listed, two prominent names are JAS 39 Gripen and F-16 Fighting Falcon.

F-16 Block 70/72 at DSE 2019 (photo : KienThuc)

Recently when Lockheed Martin Group brought F-16 Block 70/72 fighter model to the DSE Exhibition to introduce, the Russian press has shown interest.

Russian media stated that Vietnam needs to consider carefully the purchase of American fighters, because although we have time to operate the fighter, we are more familiar with the use of Russian aircraft. .

Besides, American weapons are always sold with strict conditions and restrictions, not "airy" like Russia. Not to mention that Moscow also accepts a deferred payment policy and a flexible barter.

Another note from the Russian press is that Vietnam will have to invest in building new technical infrastructure to serve these aircraft, not to mention having to buy large quantities of accompanying weapons because it is difficult to store. fusing bombs and Russian missiles on American fighter jets.

C-130J Super Hercules at DSE 2019 (photo : Duy Le)

In fact, according to a representative of Lockheed Martin, on the sidelines of the DSE 2019 exhibition, the most feasible product they want Vietnam to buy in the near future is the C-130J Super Hercules mechanical transport, when we have just retired. squadron of An-26 and number of C-295 as well as C-212 are small.

In addition, the capacity and cargo compartment of the C-295 as well as the C-212 are not comparable with the C-130J, while the requirements imposed for the transport of large numbers of troops or heavy cargo become more urgent.

The case of F-16 Block 70/72 was also shared by Lockheed Martin that they displayed the model with the purpose of introducing for the far future, because although the arms embargo has been lifted, there are many barriers. Other obstacles are not easy to overcome right away, so signing a contract to buy F-16 in the short term is not feasible.

(BaoDatViet)