Belgium-based John Cockerill Defense and Vietnam state-owned company Viettel High Tech has entered into an agreement aimed at establishing a long-term cooperation framework to develop, produce and market a range of advanced, high-technology land-defence systems, the companies announced on 27 May.
According to John Cockerill Defense, this strategic collaboration aims to leverage its strength in weapons and vehicle systems design, development, production and marketing, while Viettel will offer its expertise in defence electronics, sensors, systems integration and production.
“Vietnam is delivering sustained economic growth and Viettel is a much-respected international technology and services group,” said John Cockerill Defense CEO Thierry Renaudin.
“John Cockerill Defense is delighted to partner with Viettel and is confident that today’s agreement provides a robust foundation for future growth, to the benefit of both Vietnam and France,” added Renaudin. “Together, by combining our technological solutions, we will contribute to meeting Vietnam’s sovereignty needs.”
“Viettel High Tech is pursuing an ambitious development program in the Defense sector and partnership with John Cockerill Defense France forms a critical part of our long-term strategy,” said Viettel CEO Nguyễn Vũ Hà. “This cooperation builds on our strong foundation in core technologies, full product ownership, and the ability to tailor solutions to diverse operational needs in both domestic and international markets.”
The partnership clearly received considerable political support, having been formalised at the Embassy of France in Vietnam in the presence of French Minister for the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty Éric Lombard, and Vietnam Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thị Thắng.
by Jr Ng
