Several units of the service are participating in this significant mission, including the forces of Air Division 371. The People's Army Newspaper interviewed Senior Colonel Nguyen The Dung, Political Chief of Air Division 371 and a First-Class Pilot, who will be piloting a Su-30MK2 fighter jet for this mission.
Reporter: What is the significance of this mission for the Vietnam People’s Air Force, sir?
Senior Colonel Nguyen The Dung: The Air Defense - Air Force Service has been assigned by the Ministry of National Defense to execute the aerial performance during the parade celebrating the 50th anniversary of the South Liberation and National Reunification Day. Air Division 370 is hosting the training field, with the participation of various units under the service, including Air Division 371, Air Division 372, and the Air Force Officer Candidate School.
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Senior Colonel Nguyen The Dung, Political Chief of Air Division 371, in an interview with the People's Army Newspaper |
This is a significant mission involving many pilots, technical personnel, officers from different sectors, as well as numerous aircraft, equipment, and military assets. Beyond its political importance, this mission is a great honor and source of pride for the officers and soldiers of the Air Defense - Air Force Service as they contribute to this momentous national celebration.
Reporter: How have the participating forces prepared for this mission, sir?
Senior Colonel Nguyen The Dung: To successfully complete the mission, we have undergone rigorous training and preparation. First, our pilots must receive comprehensive theoretical and practical training, including multiple flights, training exercises, and rehearsals at various levels, from preliminary to full-scale final rehearsals.
Second, all operations must strictly follow the pre-established training curriculum, plans, and operational scenarios approved by the command levels. After conducting training at Bien Hoa Airfield and coordinating practice flights in Ho Chi Minh City, we have assessed that the pilots' flight capabilities now meet the operational requirements and scripted maneuvers for the event. However, in the coming period, we will continue refining our formations and procedures to ensure absolute precision and readiness to execute additional directives from higher command.
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A Su-30MK2 fighter jet taking off for a practice flight in Ho Chi Minh City |
Reporter: What are the advantages and disadvantages in executing this mission, sir?
Senior Colonel Nguyen The Dung: Regarding advantages, we have received close guidance and direction from our superiors, including the Ministry of National Defense, the Air Defense - Air Force Service, and the leadership of participating units. Additionally, the training conditions at Bien Hoa Airfield are more favorable than those at airfields in the North, particularly in terms of meteorological conditions.
Most importantly, the pilots involved in this mission are highly experienced, having participated in live-fire exercises, bombing drills, and Vietnam Defense Expos.
As for disadvantages, the current weather in the southern region presents difficulties. Mornings often bring low clouds and fog, while afternoons are prone to thunderstorms, which can disrupt flight operations.
Additionally, as this mission involves large-scale aerial formations, pilots must maintain extreme precision and coordination throughout the entire process - before, during, and after each flight. Moreover, the deployment of personnel and assets from multiple units to a single location requires substantial logistical and operational support from the host unit.
Reporter: Based on past experience, what are the key factors that will determine the success of this mission, sir?
Senior Colonel Nguyen The Dung: The most crucial factor is thorough preparation and seamless coordination among all participating forces. We have gained valuable experience from previous missions, such as our participation in two editions of the Vietnam Defense Expos (in 2022 and 2024) and various live-fire exercises. These experiences have been instrumental in enhancing the professional skills, composure, and problem-solving abilities of our pilots, flight command officers, and technical support teams.
Additionally, high morale and unwavering determination among all personnel will be the decisive factors ensuring the outstanding execution of our assigned mission.
Reporter: Thank you, sir!
Translated by Trung Thanh