Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Airbus Defence and Space, and France’s CNES signed a landmark cooperation agreement on May 26 at Hanoi’s Presidential Palace. The pact builds on the success of VNREDSat‑1, Vietnam’s first Earth observation satellite launched in 2013, and commits to developing a next generation satellite. Key components include advanced tech transfer, joint personnel training, and applications supporting disaster monitoring, climate data, and resource management .
The agreement ceremony was attended by key figures including VAST Vice President Le Truong Giang, Airbus representative Stéphane Vesval, and French Ambassador Olivier Brochet, with Presidents Luong Cuong and Emmanuel Macron witnessing the occasion. The initiative also extends to aerospace talent development: Airbus will assist VAST and the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) in delivering French-standard aerospace engineering curricula.
This collaboration aligns with the 2024 – 2028 Vietnam – France Action Plan under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It underscores a comprehensive strategy, from satellite R&D to human capital development, and to elevate Vietnam’s aerospace capabilities.
In parallel, during President Macron’s visit, VietJet signed for 20 additional Airbus A330 wide-body jets. The deal aims to support VietJet’s strategic expansion across Asia Pacific and future long-haul services to Europe.
(Source: Nhan Dan and Reuters)
