The roar of MiG-21s echoes in my memory. Right here before us stands the Ministry of the People’s Air Force. This unassuming building holds a legacy of daring aerial combat. It’s a legacy forged in the crucible of war.
The Ministry of the People’s Air Force oversees the Vietnamese People’s Air Force VPAF. This force is a direct descendant of the North Vietnamese Air Force. The VPAF absorbed the South Vietnamese Air Force after the reunification in 1975. It’s now one of the three main branches of the People’s Army of Vietnam. Its primary mission is defending Vietnamese airspace. It also provides air support for the People’s Army operations.
Imagine the early years. Two training planes a de Havilland Tiger Moth and a Morane-Saulnier. These were initially the private property of Emperor Bảo Đại. In 1945 he gifted them to the Vietnamese government. These humble beginnings laid the foundation for a powerful air force. The VPAF faced the might of the French Expeditionary Air Force. It was vastly outmatched in the air until 1956. Then training programs began in the USSR and China.
The Vietnam War tested the VPAF’s mettle. Its first jet fighter was a T-28 Trojan. A pilot defected from the Royal Lao Air Force bringing this plane with him. It was used as a night fighter. This T-28 scored the VPAF’s first victory. It shot down a US C-123 on February 15 1964. The VPAF later received MiG-17s. These were initially based in China while pilots were trained.
The VPAF’s tactics were ingenious. They used ground controllers to position MiGs in ambush. They made swift devastating attacks then quickly disengaged. This guerrilla warfare in the air proved highly effective. They even employed An-2 biplanes in a daring raid on Lima Site 85. These used mortar shells and rockets.
The air war saw incredible feats of bravery. There’s even a legend of Colonel Toon a mythical ace pilot. The Americans created the story. He allegedly shot down 13 US aircraft. This was a combination of several skilled VPAF pilots.
The VPAF’s modernization continues. It now operates late model Su-22s. It has also acquired advanced aircraft like the Su-27 and Su-30. Modern air defense systems are in place. This demonstrates Vietnam’s commitment to its air force.
As you stand before the Ministry of the People’s Air Force remember its remarkable journey. It’s a story of innovation courage and unwavering dedication to the defense of Vietnam. The building before you represents more than just an office. It stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s aerial might. A testament to the legacy of its brave pilots.