Vietnam begins building largest homegrown anti-submarine frigate at Danang shipyard

August 11, 2026 at 07:39 AM2 min

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Vietnam has begun constructing its largest ever domestically made anti-submarine frigate at the Song Thu Shipyard in Danang City, the military newspaper Quan Doi Nhan Dan reported on Monday. The vessel will integrate mostly locally developed or assembled weapons and military equipment, advancing the country's quest for a more autonomous defence industry. The project comes as Vietnam continues to modernize its navy amid long-standing territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.

The Construction

The frigate is being built at the defence ministry's Song Thu Shipyard in Danang City, with the Quan Doi Nhan Dan newspaper describing it as Vietnam's largest and most advanced domestically produced anti-submarine vessel. Most of its weapons and military equipment will be developed or assembled within the country, according to the report. Military-run telecoms and technology group Viettel, alongside other defence research and manufacturing units, will work closely with the navy and shipyard during construction, including the installation of weapons and equipment.

Self-Reliance Strategy

The project aligns with Vietnam's policy of developing a defence industry that is 'autonomous, self-reliant, self-strengthening, dual-use and modern,' as stated by a government statement. Vietnam has long sought to expand domestic defence manufacturing and reduce reliance on imported hardware, largely sourced from Russia. This push has accelerated as geopolitical tensions prompt Hanoi to diversify suppliers and capabilities.

Naval Modernisation Drive

Vietnam's navy has undergone a major modernisation drive over the past decades, acquiring Russian-built Kilo-class submarines and Gepard-class frigates, while also expanding a fleet of domestically built missile boats and patrol vessels. The country remains embroiled in maritime disputes with China and other claimants in the South China Sea, where it has fortified outposts and increased patrols. The new frigate is part of a broader effort to enhance naval self-sufficiency and deterrence, including hosting the Vietnam International Defence Expo in December, the third edition of the biennial event.