HANOI — April 23, 2026 : Vietnam is expected to move forward with plans to acquire between 12 and 24 Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighters from Russia in the early 2030s, as part of a long-term effort to modernize the Vietnam People’s Air Force and replace aging combat aircraft. Deliveries are anticipated to take place between 2030 and 2035, aligning with the projected maturity of the Su-57 production program and ongoing upgrades to the platform.
Fleet Modernization and Replacement
The planned acquisition is structured to address both replacement and capability expansion requirements within Vietnam’s current fleet. The incoming fifth-generation aircraft are expected to directly replace 12 Sukhoi Su-27 fighters and approximately 30 Sukhoi Su-22 aircraft, both of which are approaching the end of their operational service lives.
In addition to replacing older platforms, the Su-57 will operate alongside Vietnam’s existing inventory of around 35 Sukhoi Su-30MK2 multirole fighters, which currently serve as the backbone of the country’s combat aviation capability. This layered fleet structure is intended to maintain operational continuity while introducing advanced capabilities associated with fifth-generation aircraft.
Initial reporting on Vietnam’s interest in the Su-57 dates back to mid-2017, including coverage by Dat Viet newspaper, with subsequent references by local analysts in early 2019. The program has since remained part of Vietnam’s long-term defense planning framework, with continued analytical support from regional defense observers.
Strategic Context and Regional Dynamics
Vietnam’s decision to pursue a fifth-generation platform reflects broader regional security considerations, particularly in the South China Sea. Ongoing territorial disputes and the rapid modernization of regional air forces have influenced procurement priorities.
China currently operates a large fleet of Chengdu J-20 stealth fighters and continues development of next-generation combat aircraft. Within this context, Vietnam’s planned acquisition is intended to ensure credible airpower capabilities for long-range operations, maritime strike missions, and airspace control over its coastline and contested areas.
The Su-57’s operational profile, including extended combat range and heavy payload capacity, is considered suitable for wide-area maritime patrol and strike roles across the South China Sea.
Operational Integration and Technical Considerations
Defense analysts emphasize that compatibility with Vietnam’s existing Russian-origin systems is a central factor in the selection of the Su-57 over Western alternatives. Vietnam’s military infrastructure is built largely around Russian platforms, enabling streamlined integration.
The Su-57 is expected to operate in conjunction with existing assets such as the Su-30MK2 fleet and S-300 missile system air defense systems. This interoperability reduces logistical complexity, minimizes maintenance costs, and limits the scale of pilot retraining requirements compared to transitioning to NATO-standard aircraft.
The aircraft’s sensor suite and weapons integration are designed to support both air superiority and precision strike missions, enhancing Vietnam’s ability to respond to evolving operational requirements.
Future Configuration and Upgrade Path
Vietnam is expected to receive a more advanced configuration of the aircraft, potentially aligned with the “5+” generation standard. Reports indicate that deliveries in the 2030–2035 timeframe could include the Su-57M1 variant equipped with the AL-51F-1 engine engine.
This upgraded propulsion system is designed to provide increased thrust, improved supercruise capability, reduced radar and infrared signatures, and lower maintenance demands. The timing of the acquisition allows Vietnam to benefit from incremental improvements in the aircraft’s design, production processes, and operational reliability as the program matures.
International Export Status and Procurement Outlook
If finalized, Vietnam would become the second international operator of the Su-57 after Algeria, which has reportedly completed procurement agreements with Rosoboronexport and begun receiving aircraft between late 2025 and early 2026.
Russia has indicated growing international interest in the export variant, commonly referred to as the Su-57E, with multiple contracts reported in recent months, although additional buyers have not been officially disclosed.
No formal contract between Vietnam and Russia has been publicly announced. The final number of aircraft within the 12 to 24 range is expected to depend on budgetary considerations and procurement planning.
The acquisition aligns with Vietnam’s broader strategy of maintaining a Russian-centric defense inventory across its air force, navy, and air defense systems, while gradually introducing more advanced capabilities to replace aging platforms. Further details on contract timelines, financing arrangements, and integration schedules are likely to emerge closer to the planned delivery window in the early 2030s.
——— End of Article ———
