Context: The 15th edition of the India–Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue (DPD) was held in Hanoi to review progress under the Joint Vision Statement 2030, which identifies defence cooperation as a central pillar of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.
Major Outcomes
- MoU on Submarine Search and Rescue: Facilitates coordinated operations during maritime emergencies.
- Letter of Intent on Defence Industry Cooperation: Strengthens collaboration in joint R&D, production, and technology transfer.
- Maritime Security: Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Broader Context of India–Vietnam Relations
- Diplomatic relations were upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2016.
- The BrahMos missile deal (worth $700 million in 2025) is India’s largest defence export to date.
- The Plan of Action 2024–2028 focuses on political, economic, and defence cooperation.
- Vietnam hosted the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha from India in May 2025, strengthening cultural diplomacy.
- Regular Political Consultations and Strategic Dialogues ensure continuity in bilateral engagement.
Strategic Importance
- Act East Policy: Vietnam remains a vital anchor of India’s engagement with ASEAN.
- Indo-Pacific Vision: Collaboration enhances maritime stability against Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea.
- Defence Exports: Supports India’s goal of becoming a major defence manufacturer and exporter.
- Technology Cooperation: Promotes indigenisation and joint development of advanced systems.
- Regional Balancing: Strengthens India’s position in regional power dynamics.
Conclusion
The 15th DPD reaffirms India–Vietnam relations as a model of mutual trust and strategic depth.
It demonstrates how New Delhi’s diplomacy in Southeast Asia combines defence cooperation, cultural outreach, and developmental support to advance a stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific order.