The Vietnam Military History Museum’s new campus, located on Thang Long Boulevard in Hanoi’s Nam Tu Liem District, has completed its first phase of construction, which began in 2019, with a substantial investment of VND2.5 trillion (approximately US$101 million).
This state-of-the-art museum showcases an impressive collection of approximately 150,000 artifacts, including rare and nationally treasured items. The museum’s design is a striking tribute to Vietnam’s rich history, with a 45-meter-tall Victory Tower serving as a prominent centerpiece, commemorating the momentous occasion of Vietnam’s proclamation of independence by President Ho Chi Minh in 1945.
As you step into the outdoor exhibition area, you’ll find a powerful display of weaponry and equipment. On the left, discover the tools of resistance and defense used by the resilient Vietnamese military and people during their struggles against French colonialists and American forces. On the right, examine the armaments employed by the French and Americans during the Vietnam War, offering a comprehensive perspective on the conflict.
Delve further into the museum’s six exhibition areas, thoughtfully arranged in chronological order, each illuminating a pivotal historical theme. From “The Early Days of Nation Building and Defense” to “Nation Building and Defense from 1976 to the Present,” you’ll embark on a journey through time, exploring Vietnam’s resilient spirit and key milestones in its quest for independence and sovereignty.
This museum stands as an important testament to Vietnam’s history, marking significant anniversaries such as the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army and the 35th anniversary of National Defense Day. Admission is currently free until the end of December, after which a nominal entrance fee of VND40,000 (around US$1.6) will be charged.
The museum boasts an expansive area of 386,000 square meters, featuring a modern design that includes a striking front courtyard and the towering Victory Tower, rising 45 meters high. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
A panoramic view of the museum showcases its impressive scale and modern design. Photo: Hoang Quan/The Hanoi Times |
The outdoor exhibition area displays a diverse range of armaments, including 85mm cannons, anti-aircraft guns, tanks, and aircraft. Photo: Hoang Quan/The Hanoi Times |
The left side of the outdoor exhibition area showcases the weaponry and equipment used by the Vietnamese military and people during their resistance against colonialists and foreign forces. Photo: Hoang Quan/The Hanoi Times |
The water drop symbol, reflected in mirrors, represents Vietnam’s enduring history of national building and defense, spanning from the era of the Hung Kings to modern times. It serves as a powerful reminder of the Vietnamese people’s longstanding pursuit of peace. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
The building’s wings, adorned with images of tree branches, green buds, and doves rising from the wreckage of airplanes, symbolize the nation’s quest for peace. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
The exhibit displays the wreckage of the first B-52 shot down during the “Dien Bien Phu in the Air” campaign in December 1972, a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s military history. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
The “Silver Swallow” MiG-21 fighter jet, a national treasure, proudly greets visitors in the main lobby. This aircraft played a significant role in the War of Resistance against the United States, with Vietnamese pilots demonstrating exceptional bravery and skill. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times |
The outdoor exhibition area presents a detailed account of Vietnam’s military history. On the left, discover the armaments and equipment used by the Vietnamese military and people during their resistance against French colonialists and American forces, as well as for training and defense during peacetime. On the right, you’ll find a display of French and American weaponry used during the Vietnam War, providing a comprehensive overview of the conflict from both sides.
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