The most read Vietnamese newspaper
Edition: International | Vietnamese
© Copyright 1997 VnExpress.net. All rights reserved.
By 8 p.m., the full parade rehearsal officially began with the stirring sound of Vietnam's national anthem and the thunderous blasts of 21 ceremonial cannons fired from My Dinh Stadium. The torch procession, symbolizing the nation's enduring spirit, made its way from the Ho Chi Minh Museum to Ba Dinh Square, inspiring the nation’s people and military to strengthen their resolve.
Convoys of police vehicles and military trucks entered Ba Dinh Square at 9:15 p.m., showcasing the latest in Vietnam's defense capabilities, including advanced UAV systems, missile launchers, and armored vehicles. The parade's arsenal included high-tech systems like the domestically developed Truong Son missile system, designed to fortify Vietnam’s air defense, and the РЕДУТ-М coastal missile system, which can target surface ships and installations.
As columns of military vehicles and weapon systems rolled past the reviewing stand, crowds erupted in applause. A wide array of self-propelled artillery, including the Soviet-era Su-152 tracked self-propelled howitzer, paraded down the streets. For the first time, Vietnam's own XCB-01 infantry fighting vehicle, built by the defense industry, participated in the rehearsal, symbolizing the nation's advancements in military technology.
At 9:50 p.m., civilian contingents joined the rehearsal in marching formation across Ba Dinh Square, followed by military units from Russia, Laos, and Cambodia.
The atmosphere was electric, with thousands of residents filling the streets to catch a glimpse of the disciplined formations.
 |
|
The women’s military medical corps marches in formation during the rehearsal. Photo by VnExpress/Dinh Tung |
Women soldiers from Vietnam’s military medical corps, peacekeeping forces, and military band also participated in the parade, marching through the streets and contributing to the spectacle. The Honor Guard, representing the Army, Navy, and Air Force, displayed precision, underscoring the unity and strength of Vietnam's armed forces.
As the rehearsal neared its conclusion at 10 p.m., General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense, praised the troops for their exemplary discipline and unwavering focus throughout the rehearsal.
He emphasized the importance of keeping up this level of dedication on the official parade day.
