Vietnam’s reported decision to buy F-16 fighter jets from the
United States could mark a dramatic shift in Hanoi’s strategic alignment – and possibly the end of a decades-old defence partnership with
Russia – but some observers say the move may be more about appeasing Washington than bolstering air power.
Hanoi is said to have reached an agreement with Washington to acquire at least 24 F-16s from
Lockheed Martin, according to US-based defence outlet 19FortyFive, which cited industry sources and a former US government official. If confirmed, the deal would represent the largest military transaction between the two countries to date.