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Spike missiles.

Vietnam to produce Rafael Spike missiles locally in $250 million deal

Agreement includes technology transfer and establishment of a manufacturing facility on Vietnamese soil.​

Yuval Azulay
18:49, 02.02.
The Vietnamese army will be equipped with Spike anti-tank missiles manufactured by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in a deal worth approximately $250 million. The agreement was signed in recent days between Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense and Rafael and includes provisions for the missiles to be manufactured at a factory to be established in Vietnam, with the necessary know-how transferred from Israel. The facility will be operated by a local company that will receive a production license from Rafael.
 
An economist on the most misconception on Vietnam economy and why reaching Taiwan status is closer than ever.

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What's going on in Vietnam ? I thought Vietnam wants to be America's good buddy or ally. At least, it seems the leadership and ruling Vietnamese Communist gov have clear understandings and thinking of the nature of US hegemon and its goals in Asia. Now, comes this report.


Vietnamese classified documents refer to the US as a belligerent superpower


04:10 2026/02/04 Want Daily Tsai Tsung-ying



During former US President Joe Biden's term, Vietnam elevated bilateral diplomatic relations to the highest level, a comprehensive strategic partnership. However, the Associated Press revealed that Vietnam employed a dual strategy of simultaneously promoting trade with the US and preparing for war. (Associated Press)

During former US President Joe Biden's term, Vietnam elevated bilateral diplomatic relations to the highest level, a "comprehensive strategic partnership." However, the Associated Press revealed that Vietnam employed a dual strategy of simultaneously promoting trade with the US and preparing for war. (Associated Press)


During former US President Biden's term, Vietnam elevated bilateral diplomatic relations to the highest level, a "comprehensive strategic partnership." However, the Associated Press revealed that Vietnam employed a dual strategy of simultaneously promoting trade with the US and preparing for war. An internal Vietnamese government document titled "Plan for the Second US Invasion" expresses a deep distrust of the US, viewing it as a "belligerent power" that could overthrow its regime and Washington as an existential threat.


An analysis by Project 88, an international political prisoner watchdog group, indicates that the Vietnamese military completed a document in August 2024 titled "The 2nd US Invasion Plan." The document states that the United States and its allies, in order to strengthen deterrence against China, are prepared to wage unconventional warfare or military intervention against countries "deviant from their course," and even prepare for large-scale invasion. The document mentions that although the probability of the United States launching a war against Vietnam is currently low, given the "belligerent" nature of the United States, Vietnam must be cautious to prevent the United States and its allies from "creating a pretext" to invade Vietnam. The document also states that while the United States views Vietnam as a partner and an important hub, it also hopes to spread and implement values such as freedom, democracy, human rights, nationalism, and religion in Vietnam in order to "gradually change Vietnam's socialist government."


The Associated Press pointed out that the report not only reveals Vietnam's dual policy toward the United States, but also demonstrates Vietnam's deep-seated fear of external forces inciting the people to overthrow its communist leadership. The Vietnamese government is worried that a "color revolution" similar to the "Orange Revolution" in Ukraine in 2004 or the "Yellow Revolution" in the Philippines in 1986 may break out in the country.


Swanton, co-director of Project 88 and author of the report, stated that this was a consensus across ministries within the Vietnamese government, not just the delusion of some marginalized groups or bigots. The "Second US Invasion Plan" is Vietnam's clearest foreign policy to date, highlighting that Hanoi not only does not regard the United States as a strategic partner, but also sees Washington as a threat to its survival and has no intention of joining its anti-China alliance.


The Associated Press points out that while Vietnam's concerns about the United States have eased somewhat during President Trump's term, they have also raised more issues. Nguyen Khac Giang, a researcher at the Singapore-based think tank Yusof Ishak Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, notes that under Vietnam's top leader To Lam, Trump's golf resort and real estate projects were able to commence in northern Vietnam, and To Lam almost immediately agreed to join Trump's "Peace Council." However, the US military action against Venezuela has further intensified the unease among Vietnamese conservatives regarding deepening relations with the United States.


 
What's going on in Vietnam ? I thought Vietnam wants to be America's good buddy or ally. At least, it seems the leadership and ruling Vietnamese Communist gov have clear understandings and thinking of the nature of US hegemon and its goals in Asia. Now, comes this report.


Vietnamese classified documents refer to the US as a belligerent superpower


04:10 2026/02/04 Want Daily Tsai Tsung-ying



During former US President Joe Biden's term, Vietnam elevated bilateral diplomatic relations to the highest level, a comprehensive strategic partnership. However, the Associated Press revealed that Vietnam employed a dual strategy of simultaneously promoting trade with the US and preparing for war. (Associated Press)'s term, Vietnam elevated bilateral diplomatic relations to the highest level, a comprehensive strategic partnership. However, the Associated Press revealed that Vietnam employed a dual strategy of simultaneously promoting trade with the US and preparing for war. (Associated Press)

During former US President Joe Biden's term, Vietnam elevated bilateral diplomatic relations to the highest level, a "comprehensive strategic partnership." However, the Associated Press revealed that Vietnam employed a dual strategy of simultaneously promoting trade with the US and preparing for war. (Associated Press)


During former US President Biden's term, Vietnam elevated bilateral diplomatic relations to the highest level, a "comprehensive strategic partnership." However, the Associated Press revealed that Vietnam employed a dual strategy of simultaneously promoting trade with the US and preparing for war. An internal Vietnamese government document titled "Plan for the Second US Invasion" expresses a deep distrust of the US, viewing it as a "belligerent power" that could overthrow its regime and Washington as an existential threat.


An analysis by Project 88, an international political prisoner watchdog group, indicates that the Vietnamese military completed a document in August 2024 titled "The 2nd US Invasion Plan." The document states that the United States and its allies, in order to strengthen deterrence against China, are prepared to wage unconventional warfare or military intervention against countries "deviant from their course," and even prepare for large-scale invasion. The document mentions that although the probability of the United States launching a war against Vietnam is currently low, given the "belligerent" nature of the United States, Vietnam must be cautious to prevent the United States and its allies from "creating a pretext" to invade Vietnam. The document also states that while the United States views Vietnam as a partner and an important hub, it also hopes to spread and implement values such as freedom, democracy, human rights, nationalism, and religion in Vietnam in order to "gradually change Vietnam's socialist government."


The Associated Press pointed out that the report not only reveals Vietnam's dual policy toward the United States, but also demonstrates Vietnam's deep-seated fear of external forces inciting the people to overthrow its communist leadership. The Vietnamese government is worried that a "color revolution" similar to the "Orange Revolution" in Ukraine in 2004 or the "Yellow Revolution" in the Philippines in 1986 may break out in the country.


Swanton, co-director of Project 88 and author of the report, stated that this was a consensus across ministries within the Vietnamese government, not just the delusion of some marginalized groups or bigots. The "Second US Invasion Plan" is Vietnam's clearest foreign policy to date, highlighting that Hanoi not only does not regard the United States as a strategic partner, but also sees Washington as a threat to its survival and has no intention of joining its anti-China alliance.


The Associated Press points out that while Vietnam's concerns about the United States have eased somewhat during President Trump's term, they have also raised more issues. Nguyen Khac Giang, a researcher at the Singapore-based think tank Yusof Ishak Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, notes that under Vietnam's top leader To Lam, Trump's golf resort and real estate projects were able to commence in northern Vietnam, and To Lam almost immediately agreed to join Trump's "Peace Council." However, the US military action against Venezuela has further intensified the unease among Vietnamese conservatives regarding deepening relations with the United States.


Extreme scenarios but possible. All comes down to possibility. But the second US invasion is less likely than 14th Chinese invasion of Vietnam. What’s likely to happen.
 
Extreme scenarios but possible. All comes down to possibility. But the second US invasion is less likely than 14th Chinese invasion of Vietnam. What’s likely to happen.
I don't think China is interested in invading Vietnam unless it militarily allies with US or other China's powerful enemy to seriously threaten China's security.
 
I don't think China is interested in invading Vietnam unless it militarily allies with US or other China's powerful enemy to seriously threaten China's security.
We are screwed.
If Vietnam allies with the US then a new Chinese invasion is almost 100%. If we get too close with the Chinese, Trump will run amok, armada of US aircraft carriers coming.
 
Interesting “Schaukel“ diplomacy
Xi sent special envoy to Vietnam.
Few days later To sends special envoy to China.
Seems both communist chiefs exchange secret notes in person via special envoys.
In that way the US secret service can’t intercept the message.

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We are screwed.
If Vietnam allies with the US then a new Chinese invasion is almost 100%. If we get too close with the Chinese, Trump will run amok, armada of US aircraft carriers coming.
From the report, it seems the Vietnamese leadership really thinks that US invasion of Vietnam or engineering the overthrow of Vietnam Communist gov is a real possibility, not just some theoretical probability. Maybe Vietnam can learn something from the fat boy Kim of North Korea to deal with Trump, just ignore or distance from the mentally volatile mad orange man, and NK is safe now. The countries that he hurts the most are US allies. Some US Secretary of State once famously said "To be US enemy is dangerous, but to be US friend is fatal", it is so true.
 
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From the report, it seems the Vietnamese leadership really thinks that US invasion of Vietnam or engineering the overthrow of Vietnam Communist gov is a real possibility, not just some theoretical probability. Maybe Vietnam can learn something from the fat boy Kim of North Korea to deal with Trump, just ignore or distance from the mentally volatile mad orange man, and NK is safe now. The countries that he hurts the most are US allies. Some US Secretary of State once famously said "To be US enemy is dangerous, but to be US friend is fatal", it is so true.
North Korea has nukes, there is no comparison. I never imagined that’s a possibility. It makes no sense to wage a simultaneous war be economic or hot war against China and Vietnam at the same time. but apparently Trump is a psycho so every scenario is possible. But no worry. the Vietnamese are hardened in numerous wars.
The negative: that would provoke Vietnam a military buildup that in turn provokes a negative response from China.
Or a positive scenario is Trump wants Vietnam to sign a security agreement and buy more from the US or makes investments in the US. In that case then it should not be a problem.
 
Haha, even looking for Britain to help build HSR in Vietnam ? Maybe the British can help build HSR or railways with their 150 years old precious tech. Ironically, UK's own HSR was built with French and Japanese HSR tech.


UK, Vietnam Collaborate on Railway Infrastructure Development


This title was summarized by AI from the post below.

View organization page for UK ASIA TRADE & INVESTMENT COUNCIL
UK ASIA TRADE & INVESTMENT COUNCIL



UK and Vietnam are entering a new chapter in railway infrastructure.

A high-level British rail mission is currently on the ground in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to map out a partnership that goes beyond just laying tracks.

This delegation, led by UK Trade Envoy Matt Western, involves British engineering and technology firms working directly with Vietnam’s Ministry of Construction and urban railway boards. This collaboration follows through on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in late 2025 and fits directly into the joint Action Plan set for the period ahead.

The focus is on practical, high-tech solutions for Vietnam’s massive infrastructure goals, including the North-South high-speed railway and expanding metro systems. Instead of just general trade, the two sides are looking at specific technical areas like Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) to ensure these multi-billion dollar projects are efficient and sustainable from the start.

It is a great example of how specialised expertise can help meet the demands of rapid urbanisation. With Vietnam planning to break ground on major projects soon, having this kind of technical exchange is a significant step forward for both countries.

#UK #Vietnam #Railways #Infrastructure #Hanoi #HoChiMinhCity #HighSpeedRail #UrbanDevelopment #BIM #UrbanPlanning #SustainableTransport #Partnership

  • No alternative text description for this image


 

Vietnam's Economic Surge: Record Trade with U.S. and China​

Devdiscourse News Desk

Updated: 06-02-2026 08:22 IST | Created: 06-02-2026 08:22 IST
Vietnam's Economic Surge: Record Trade with U.S. and China


Vietnam has experienced a robust economic surge, with January's trade surplus with the United States growing nearly 30% year-on-year. This growth comes as Vietnamese exports continue to climb, reaching $13.9 billion, despite the imposition of high tariffs by the previous U.S. administration.

Imports from China have also reached a new high, hitting $19 billion, as Vietnam's total exports for the month rose by 29.7% to $43.19 billion. The country's industrial production saw a significant increase of 21.5%, reflecting an overall positive trade environment.

Despite the positive export trend, Vietnam faced a trade deficit of $1.78 billion due to a sharp increase in imports, which rose 49.2% year-on-year. Furthermore, while foreign investment inflows rose to $1.68 billion, future investment pledges fell by 40.6% compared to last year.
 
Haha, even looking for Britain to help build HSR in Vietnam ? Maybe the British can help build HSR or railways with their 150 years old precious tech. Ironically, UK's own HSR was built with French and Japanese HSR tech.


UK, Vietnam Collaborate on Railway Infrastructure Development


This title was summarized by AI from the post below.

View organization page for UK ASIA TRADE & INVESTMENT COUNCIL
UK ASIA TRADE & INVESTMENT COUNCIL



UK and Vietnam are entering a new chapter in railway infrastructure.

A high-level British rail mission is currently on the ground in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to map out a partnership that goes beyond just laying tracks.

This delegation, led by UK Trade Envoy Matt Western, involves British engineering and technology firms working directly with Vietnam’s Ministry of Construction and urban railway boards. This collaboration follows through on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in late 2025 and fits directly into the joint Action Plan set for the period ahead.

The focus is on practical, high-tech solutions for Vietnam’s massive infrastructure goals, including the North-South high-speed railway and expanding metro systems. Instead of just general trade, the two sides are looking at specific technical areas like Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) to ensure these multi-billion dollar projects are efficient and sustainable from the start.

It is a great example of how specialised expertise can help meet the demands of rapid urbanisation. With Vietnam planning to break ground on major projects soon, having this kind of technical exchange is a significant step forward for both countries.

#UK #Vietnam #Railways #Infrastructure #Hanoi #HoChiMinhCity #HighSpeedRail #UrbanDevelopment #BIM #UrbanPlanning #SustainableTransport #Partnership

  • No alternative text description for this image


No not copying the British 1:1
Vietnam seeks money and technology, then we develop own rail industry. We take everything what we can get, be from China, Japan or Korea or Spain or UK. See the video I posted earlier, that’s the only way to get developed and become rich.
 
No not copying the British 1:1
Vietnam seeks money and technology, then we develop own rail industry. We take everything what we can get, be from China, Japan or Korea or Spain or UK. See the video I posted earlier, that’s the Far east way to get developed and become rich.
That's more sensible. China also bought some tech that other countries were willing to sell and needed in China from German, Japanese and French HSR companies at the early stage of China's HSR development. But, it takes time to develop its own HSR system esp for a not big country like Vietnam that doesn't have much accumulations of HSR or railway tech. Your own HSR system may not be ready for the construction of North-South HSR.
 
That's more sensible. China also bought some tech that other countries were willing to sell and needed in China from German, Japanese and French HSR companies at the early stage of China's HSR development. But, it takes time to develop its own HSR system esp for a not big country like Vietnam that doesn't have much accumulations of HSR or railway tech. Your own HSR system may not be ready for the construction of North-South HSR.
Yes Vietnam will follow the same way. Yes it will take time to learn and accumulate experience. The Vietnam’s way is we want to learn faster and accumulate knowledge quicker. We are 25 years behind of China and other like Japan, we don’t want to wait 25 years.
 
The army run tech company Viettel opens a representative office in Singapore. That comes in the series of Viettel global office operations in the US, Japan, Australia and UAE.

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