The Vietnamese Air Force has supplied the aircraft under an agreement with the US T-6C Texan II trainer aircraft received its first batch. In this context, 5 T-6C Texan II aircraft arrived in Vietnam and the remaining 7 aircraft are planned to be delivered in 2025. The delivery is considered an important step in deepening defense cooperation between Vietnam and the USA.
Delivery Ceremony and Details of the Agreement
Delivery ceremony of T-6C Texan II training aircraft, General Kevin Schneider, Commander of U.S. Pacific Air Forces and attended by senior Vietnamese officials. This delivery was made within the framework of the agreement signed in August 2022. The agreement will not only include aircraft delivery, but also the following support services:
- Pilot Training: Training programs to be provided by the USA for basic flight training.
- Logistics and Spare Parts Support: To support the long-term operational performance of aircraft.
- Engineering Services: Strengthening the technical infrastructure.
Remarks by General Kevin Schneider
Schneider made the following remarks in his speech regarding the delivery:
“These aircraft ensure Vietnam is better prepared to deter threats in the region and will continue to promote peace and stability with the United States and our international partners.”
T-6C Texan II: A Global Trainer
Beechcraft T-6 Texan II, is an aircraft used for basic and advanced pilot training worldwide. To date, it has entered the inventory of 14 different countries and a total of 5 million flight hours Different variants of the aircraft are used in a wide range of missions, from training to reconnaissance.
Users of T-6 Aircraft
The countries and programs where T-6 series aircraft are most commonly used include:
- US Air Force: For basic pilot training and combat systems officer (CSO) training.
- Royal Canadian Air Force: Within the scope of NATO Flight Training Program.
- Israeli and Greek Air Forces: Basic flight training.
- Air Forces of Mexico, Tunisia, Colombia and Vietnam: Other countries using the T-6C variant.
Technical Specifications of T-6C
- Maximum Speed: 586 km/h.
- Flight Duration: 5 hours.
- Task Profile: Training, reconnaissance and light attack missions.
Strategic Cooperation Between Vietnam and the US
Vietnam in the Indo-Pacific Region to promote peace and stability It continues to strengthen its defense cooperation with the United States. In this context, the delivery of T-6C Texan II aircraft is considered a step forward in the strategic partnership of the two countries.
The Importance of the T-6C for Vietnam
The Vietnam People's Air Force uses the T-6C Texan II to:
- Will Improve Pilot Training Capacity: Training aircraft will play a critical role in training future fighter pilots.
- Will Strengthen Regional Security: Will provide deterrence against threats in the Indo-Pacific Region.
Comments from Textron Aviation Defense CEO
Travis Tyler, President, Textron Aviation Defense LLC, Noting that Vietnam is the 6th country to use T-14 Texan II aircraft, he made the following statements:
“We are honored to support the strategic partnership between the United States and Vietnam. This delivery will help both countries achieve their goal of a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific Region.”
A New Era in Vietnam's Defense Capacity
Vietnam is preparing to play a more active role in regional security by modernizing its defense capacity with T-6C Texan II aircraft. The delivery, which will be completed by 2025, will be carried out by the Vietnamese Air Force. equipped with modern training aircraft will enable it to attain a structure.
This delivery not only strengthens defense cooperation between Vietnam and the United States, but also Vietnam’s strengthening as a regional security actor The advanced technology and operational flexibility provided by the T-6C Texan II will enhance Vietnam’s deterrent in the region and create a stronger balance in the Indo-Pacific Region.
