13,000 march in Vietnam’s grand parade marking 50 years of national reunification

The Coast Guard unit led the march past Ben Thanh Market. As the military column came into view, thousands of onlookers pushed closer, erupting in cheers and excitement.

Photo by Dinh Van

Photo by Dinh Van

The Royal Cambodian Army joins the parade

Established on Nov. 9, 1953, the Royal Cambodian Army comprises the Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie, and specialized units, playing a key role in protecting Cambodia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national peace.

Strengthened by decades of friendship and solidarity, the Royal Cambodian Army and the Vietnam People’s Army have long stood together—supporting one another in the fight against shared adversaries and contributing to the peace, independence, and freedom of both nations.

Cambodian soldiers on parade. Photo by Thanh Tung

Founded on Jan. 20, 1949, the Lao People's Army has played a pivotal role in the country’s national revolution.

Throughout the fight for independence, it stood shoulder to shoulder with the Vietnam People's Army, forming a united front against foreign invaders. The enduring bond between the two countries, their parties, and armed forces remains strong, with ongoing collaboration to uphold revolutionary gains, secure border areas, and safeguard each nation's territorial sovereignty.

The Lao People's Army marches onto the parade ground. Photo by Thanh Tung

Founded in 1952, the Honorary Ceremonial Unit of the People’s Liberation Army of China is tasked with representing the Party, State, and Military in official ceremonies. Over its 73-year history, the unit has performed more than 13,000 ceremonial duties, earning recognition for its precision, discipline, and spirited presentation that reflects the strength and image of the Chinese military and state.

At the invitation of Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense, the Chinese Army delegation traveled to Ho Chi Minh City to take part in the April 30 military parade, underscoring the ongoing friendship between the two nations.

During Vietnam’s resistance war against the U.S., the country received crucial support from China, Laos, Cambodia, and the former Soviet Union.

Half a century ago, five key military columns—joined by armed forces and mass political movements—converged on Saigon from all directions. The 1st Corps advanced from the north, the 2nd Corps from the southeast, the 3rd Corps from the northwest, the 4th Corps from the east, and Brigade 232 moved in from the southwest. Their movements followed a rallying command: "Advance rapidly, accelerate even more; act boldly, act with greater courage; seize every hour, every minute; race to the front; liberate the South, fight decisively, and secure complete victory."

Photo by Hoang Viet

One of the most anticipated moments of the parade was the formation flight of seven Su-30MK2 fighter jets from Bien Hoa Airport to Ho Chi Minh City. After passing over Le Duan Street near the Reunification Palace—where the main ceremony was held—the jets circled the Saigon River near Thu Thiem.

As the formation approached Bitexco Tower, the city’s second tallest building after Landmark 81, three of the jets broke away to execute a precision maneuver, releasing flares in the sky.

Photo by Thanh Nguyen

The Air Defense – Air Force had carefully chosen this location for the flare release. Positioned about one kilometer from the Reunification Palace and near the river, the site ensured both safety and high visibility for spectators.

Su-30MK2 fighter jets light up Ho Chi Minh City’s skies with flares

 

 

13,000 march in Vietnam’s grand parade marking 50 years of national reunification

Trực thăng bay và tiêm kích.

The commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Southern Liberation and National Reunification began with a aerial display by the Vietnam People's Air Force.

Kicking off the parade and march, squadrons of Vietnam’s air force took to the skies. Leading the formation were 23 aircraft, including Su-30MK2 fighter jets, Yak-130 training jets, and helicopters bearing the national flag. The Mi-8T, Mi-17, and Mi-171 helicopters were featured for their roles in combat readiness, special operations, and airlift duties. The Su-30MK2s—high-performance, next-generation supersonic fighters—are designed for both simple and high-threat combat scenarios, with advanced technical and tactical systems capable of engaging enemy aircraft effectively.

Ten helicopters took off from Bien Hoa Airport in a 3-4-3 formation, flying the national flag toward Ho Chi Minh City. Photo by Thanh Nguyen