France seeks helicopter and frigate-building cooperation with Vietnam
The French ambassador outlined potential defence partnerships as the frigate Vendémiaire visited Hai Phong, with its stay scheduled to end on November 16.
France wants to provide Vietnam with next-generation helicopters and is discussing assistance to develop the country's ability to build frigates, French Ambassador Didier Le Bret said during a French naval visit to Hai Phong.
Le Bret said France was seeking to supply helicopters for both civilian and military purposes as Vietnam renews its fleet. He identified potential uses including coastal surveillance, rescue missions, oil and gas support, and carrying working delegations.
The ambassador also said the countries were working together on a new earth-observation satellite project. It is intended to strengthen Vietnam's ability to detect security threats and forecast natural disasters using space-based technology. France hopes to broaden satellite cooperation in the years ahead, he added.
The discussions on support for Vietnam's defence industry include developing domestic capacity to build frigates for its navy, Le Bret said. He described progress in bilateral defence ties over the past two years as Vietnam diversifies its partners and suppliers.
The French frigate Vendémiaire arrived at Greenport with 93 officers and sailors for a Hai Phong visit scheduled to continue until November 16. Planned activities include meetings with Vietnamese military and city leaders, exchanges on keeping ships operational after damage, joint exercises with the Vietnam Coast Guard, and sporting and cultural events.
