U.S. Air Force Delivers Historic T-6C Texan II Trainer Aircraft to Vietnam

In a significant milestone for both the U.S. Air Force and the Vietnam Air Defence air force (ADAF), the first three T-6C Texan II trainer aircraft were delivered to Vietnam on November 20, 2024. The ceremony, held at Phan Thiet Air Base, was attended by U.S. Air Force Gen. Kevin Schneider, Commander of Pacific Air Forces, Lt. Gen. Nguyen Van Hien, Commander of the Vietnam ADAF, and U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper.

The delivery marks a crucial step in the modernization efforts of the Vietnam ADAF, with the full complement of 12 T-6C Texan IIs scheduled to be delivered by 2025. The T-6C is a next-generation military trainer designed to prepare pilots for a wide range of missions, and it will be integrated into the pilot training program at Phan Thiet Air Base.

Gen. Schneider emphasized the significance of this delivery, stating that it represents the promise made by the U.S. to assist in Vietnam’s air force modernization. He highlighted that this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to peace and the rule of law in the region. The U.S. remains committed to supporting Vietnam’s defense resilience, aligning with Vietnam’s conditions and needs, and strengthening a defense relationship rooted in shared security interests and regional stability.

This historic delivery is part of the broader U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which includes various areas of cooperation such as cybersecurity and other strategic initiatives.