Vietnam Considers Rafale Jets, Signaling Shift from Russian Military Dependence Amid Chinese Expansion
Vietnam is reportedly evaluating the Dassault Rafale fighter jet, a move that could signify a significant departure from its long-standing reliance on Soviet and Russian combat aircraft. This potential acquisition, estimated between US$4 billion and US$6 billion for 24 to 40 aircraft, is driven by several factors: an aging Vietnamese air fleet, uncertain Russian supply chains, and the rapid expansion of China's military capabilities in the South China Sea. While no formal contract has been announced, pilot familiarization activities and French marketing efforts suggest serious consideration. The current Vietnamese air force largely consists of older Su-22s, Su-27s, and Su-30MK2s, which are increasingly outmatched by China's advanced integrated forces, including J-10C, J-16, Su-35, and J-20 stealth fighters, along with sophisticated electronic warfare and long-range missile systems. A Rafale acquisition would introduce a Western weapons, training, maintenance, and electronic-warfare ecosystem, diversifying ... 
