The navies of Vietnam and China have conducted their first-ever live-fire anti-piracy drill. This significant event took place as part of a joint patrol and training session in the Gulf of Tonkin, marking a new development in their bilateral defense cooperation.

This activity is part of the 10th Vietnam - China border defense friendship exchange and the 40th joint patrol. The main events are scheduled from 18-19/3 in Quang Ninh province, Vietnam, and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Vietnam's contingent included two missile frigates, 015 Tran Hung Dao and 012 Ly Thai To, both from Brigade 162, Naval Region 4.

Prior to the main training, a courtesy meeting was held on 16/3 at Fangchenggang port, Guangxi province, China. During this, the Vietnam People's Navy delegation visited China's 568 naval vessel. In turn, leaders from the Guangzhou Naval Base and Chinese naval officers visited Vietnam's 015 Tran Hung Dao ship.

Leaders of the Guangzhou Naval Base (China) visit the 015 Tran Hung Dao ship. *Photo: Hoang Dieu*

At Fangchenggang port, the defense ministers from both countries are expected to receive direct reports from the detachment commanders on their preparations and issue orders for mission deployment.

The commanders of both detachments stated that the joint patrol mechanism helps maintain security and order in the Gulf of Tonkin. It also enhances their coordinated response to non-traditional maritime security challenges.

The two delegations take a souvenir photo on the 015 Tran Hung Dao ship. *Photo: Hoang Dieu*

During the training program, the ships will perform various exercises, including: maritime formation maneuvering, maritime escort, light signal communication, anti-piracy drills, sharing search and rescue experience, and ensuring vessel safety.

The 015 Tran Hung Dao and 012 Ly Thai To are part of a four-vessel missile frigate detachment of the Vietnam Navy, which also includes: 011 Dinh Tien Hoang, 012 Ly Thai To, 015 Tran Hung Dao, and 016 Quang Trung. These ships were commissioned in 2011 and 2018, and are currently managed by Brigade 162, Naval Region 4.

Hoang Dieu - Hong Chieu