Vietnam's National Day Parade Rehearsal Stirs Hanoi

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In the heart of Hanoi, an impressive display of military might unfolded on Wednesday evening as Vietnamese troops, supported by tanks and armoured vehicles, took centre stage in Ba Dinh Square. The rehearsal for Vietnam’s upcoming National Day celebrations saw participation from allies Russia, Laos, and Cambodia, embodying the spirit of international solidarity.

The evening began with a stirring ceremony. As the clock struck 8 p.m., the national anthem resonated throughout Ba Dinh Square, setting the tone for what followed. A 21-gun salute, fired by Brigade 45 Artillery at My Dinh Stadium, marked the occasion, while a torch relay brought the "sacred flame" from the Ho Chi Minh Museum to the square. Here, it was ceremonially handed to Lt. Gen. Nguyen Duc Soat, a decorated People’s Armed Forces Hero.

The parade commenced with precision formations, led by the national emblem adorned on a Dong Son bronze drum. Representatives of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups proudly walked past, preceding the Party flag, national flag, and a portrait of President Ho Chi Minh, together with the insignia commemorating 80 years of National Day.

Hanoi’s streets turned into a lively festival. LED screens at August Revolution Square gathered crowds, enthusiastically singing revolutionary songs, while volunteers led choruses along Cua Nam and Trang Tien. Grandstands, accommodating 30,000 spectators, were filled well in advance. Families camped along Lieu Giai–Dao Tan for good views, and many filmed from around the Opera House.

Female formations, including the Women’s Military Band and various police units, showcased their precision early on. Led by Deputy Defence Minister Gen. Nguyen Ngoc Thai, command groups carried military colours past the reviewing dais.

Vietnam’s defence capabilities were highlighted as an array of heavy equipment rolled past. Coastal-and ground-attack "Truong Son" missile batteries, along with Russia's K-300P Bastion-P systems, demonstrated formidable power. The parade also featured Scud-B tactical ballistic missile launchers and self-propelled howitzers.

Locally developed technology was on display with the XCB-01 infantry fighting vehicle, a testament to Vietnam's growing defence industry. This 15-ton vehicle, capable of carrying troops with advanced weaponry, captured attention, as did the T-90SK and T-62 tanks, boasting advanced armour and electronics.

Modern warfare was represented by electronic and cyber units, highlighting Vietnam's focus on digital transformation and critical infrastructure protection. Female military medical officers, celebrated for their roles in disaster responses, led cadet units proficient with cutting-edge equipment.

International participation was marked by Russian, Laotian, and Cambodian troops, marching to loud applause and symbolising enduring regional alliances.

Beyond Ba Dinh Square, the city pulsed with excitement. From Quan Ngua Stadium, a final assembly hub, to the crowded streets of Nguyen Thai Hoc and Hung Vuong, spectators stood shoulder-to-shoulder, eager to witness the spectacle. Volunteers on Trang Tien created a captivating sea of mobile-phone lights as armoured units passed by to shouts and cheers.

Wednesday’s rehearsal was a crucial test of choreography, communication, and crowd management ahead of the September 2nd main event. As the nation’s capital turned out adorned in festive colours, the successful run-through set a vibrant stage for the grand celebration of Vietnam’s 80th National Day.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-08-28