The 416th Armored Brigade: Enhancing Combat Power to Firmly Defend a Strategic Region

19 Oktober 2026

The 416th Armored Brigade is an armored military unit under Military Region 9 of the Vietnam People's Army, operating combat vehicles such as PT-76 amphibious light tanks and BRDM-2 reconnaissance vehicles (all photos: QDND)

Upholding its heroic traditions, the 416th Armored Brigade (Military Region 9) has consistently improved its overall quality and combat power in recent years, making a significant contribution to the firm defense of the Mekong Delta—a vital strategic region.

From September 24 to October 8, the 416th Armored Brigade conducted assessments to evaluate the results of its 2026 training program. Throughout the testing process, crew members demonstrated steady composure, high proficiency in operating their weapons and equipment, and seamless coordination among the members of each vehicle crew.

The assessment results accurately reflected the troops' competence in mastering their equipment and their overall operational readiness. In the exercise involving firing at intermittent targets while maneuvering in PT-76 tanks, 100% of the crews met the requirements, with 91.3% achieving "good" or "excellent" ratings.

In the exercise involving firing at intermittent targets while on the move (conducted both day and night), 100% of the crews performed well, earning an "excellent" rating for the module. Furthermore, in the comprehensive driving test—which required navigating obstacles over complex terrain (both day and night)—100% of the crews achieved "good" or "excellent" ratings, while ensuring absolute safety for both personnel and equipment. In the amphibious driving test, 100% of the vehicle crews met the requirements, with over 80% achieving "good" or "excellent" ratings.

The success of this evaluation serves as a vivid testament to the spirit of solidarity and the firm determination—encapsulated by the motto "Master your weapons and equipment; excel in driving and marksmanship"—demonstrated by the officers and soldiers of the 416th Armored Brigade. This establishes a solid foundation for the Brigade to continue building a unit that is comprehensively strong, "exemplary and outstanding," and fully prepared to undertake and successfully complete any assigned mission.

To achieve these results, the Brigade’s Party Committee and Command provided close, comprehensive leadership and direction for all training activities from the very beginning of the year. Specialized staff sections proactively and effectively advised on the development of training plans, as well as the organized and rigorous execution of training programs.

Party committees and commanders at all levels took the initiative to tailor training content, ensuring comprehensive and in-depth instruction for both individual crew members and the crews as a whole. This enabled the personnel to master their individual skills while honing their ability to coordinate and operate seamlessly as a cohesive combat unit. 

(QDND)