Vietnam wraps up defence expo with 16 contracts worth US$286m inked

Vietnam's biggest defence expo wrapped up over the weekend. The country has traditionally relied on its historical ally Russia for its weaponry needs, but it is looking to diversify its defence suppliers. Sources told CNA that Vietnam and the US are set to reach agreements for a sale of C-130 military transport aircraft. According to the organisers of the expo, 17 cooperation agreements were reached with countries including India, Belgium, France and the US. Local businesses also signed US$286 million worth of deals — double the value signed in the last edition in 2022. Tung Ngo reports.