Textron Aviation Defense has delivered five Beechcraft T-6C Texan II training aircraft to Vietnam‘s Phan Thiet Airbase.
The delivery, the first batch of aircraft procured to support Hanoi’s pilot training program, fulfills part of a first-of-its-kind Foreign Military Sales program between the U.S. Air Force and the Vietnam Air Defense Air Force. The remaining planes of the 12-aircraft deal are expected to be delivered by mid-2025.
Textron Aviation Defense President and CEO Travis Tyler highlighted the deal as vital to maintaining the stability of the Indo-Pacific region. “We also welcome the Vietnam Air Defense Air Force as the 14th nation to place its confidence in the T-6 Texan II and we celebrate the arrival of the T-6C at Phan Thiet Airbase,” the executive said.
With over 1,000 units deployed worldwide, the T-6C features an all-digital, open-architecture glass cockpit that offers visibility for complex missions and an advanced environmental control system for comfort and safety. Textron said the aircraft’s integrated training system is the “world’s largest,” offering configurable training courseware and media-integrated training lectures.
The T-6C is used in pilot training programs across two NATO flight schools and 14 countries, including the United States, Canada, Greece, Argentina, Israel and the United Kingdom.
Strategic Partnership
During the handover ceremony on Nov. 20, U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper said the delivery reflects the growing partnership between the two countries. “The T-6C trainer aircraft will provide valuable support to Vietnam’s pilot training program, reflecting our shared vision for a strong, prosperous, independent and resilient Vietnam that contributes to regional stability and security,” the envoy said.
Last year, President Joe Biden and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong elevated the two nations’ bilateral relationship by signing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, deepening cooperation in trade, science and technology, education, energy and defense and security.
Through the enhanced partnership, the U.S. Department of Defense and Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense will continue their collaborative efforts to address war legacies, military medicine, United Nations peacekeeping operations, and maritime security. Washington also expressed its commitment to supporting Vietnam in developing its independent defense capabilities.