Historic U.S.-Vietnam arms talks worry China and challenge Russia

Vietnam seeks major U.S. arms deal

In a groundbreaking development, the Biden administration is engaging in discussions with Vietnam to potentially orchestrate the most substantial arms transfer in history between the former Cold War adversaries. While the deal remains in its early stages and its completion is uncertain, it represents a significant stride in the evolving partnership between Washington and Hanoi.

The envisioned agreement, expected to take shape within the next year, revolves around the sale of a fleet of American F-16 fighter jets to Vietnam. This move comes as tensions simmer between Vietnam and China in the contested South China Sea.

Special financing considerations

To facilitate this substantial arms deal, the U.S. is contemplating offering tailored financing terms. This could help Vietnam diversify its armament sources away from its traditional reliance on cost-effective Russian-made weaponry.

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A potential arms deal of this magnitude could unsettle China, Vietnam's larger neighbor, which remains cautious of Western efforts to constrain Beijing. As Vietnam grapples with a long-standing territorial dispute with China in the South China Sea, it seeks to bolster its maritime defenses without inciting a strong response from its neighbor.

U.S. pivot to the Indo-Pacific

Experts suggest that the United States should redirect military financing from the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific region, allowing partners like Vietnam to acquire the necessary weaponry to resist Beijing's assertiveness.

In the evolving landscape of geopolitical competition, the Biden administration aims to navigate relations with both China and Russia responsibly. Vietnam's elevation of the United States to its highest diplomatic status alongside China and Russia demonstrates a significant shift in the nation's foreign policy.

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Despite lifting the arms embargo in 2016, U.S. defense exports to Vietnam have been limited. Russia has remained the primary supplier, furnishing approximately 80% of Vietnam's arsenal. While Vietnam spends around $2 billion annually on arms imports, Washington aims to gradually redirect a portion of this budget towards U.S. or allied weaponry.

The challenges lie in the cost of U.S. weaponry and the associated training. Nevertheless, Vietnam recognizes the need to diversify its sources and spread its defense resources. As talks with Moscow continue, the evolving dynamics of Vietnam's international relationships warrant close attention.