Vietnamese Armed Forces Showcase Amphibious Combat Capabilities with Russian GAZ-5903 APC.

At the Vietnam Defence Exhibition, which took place in Hanooi from 19 to 22 December 2024, the Vietnamese armed forces demonstrated their amphibious combat capabilities, showcasing a wide range of vehicles and equipment designed for operations in water-dominated environments. Among the highlights was the Russian-made GAZ-5903, a versatile amphibious armored personnel carrier (APC) that underscores Vietnam’s ability to tackle operational challenges in its complex geographical terrain, including marshlands, rivers, and coastal areas.
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The Russian-made GAZ-5903 amphibious armored personnel carrier is on display at the Vietnam Defence Exhibition in Hanoi, highlighting the Vietnamese armed forces' capabilities in amphibious operations and terrain adaptability. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Developed by the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ) during the Soviet era, the GAZ-5903 is a multi-terrain vehicle renowned for its robust design and adaptability. Its 6x6 wheel configuration, combined with amphibious capabilities, makes it a reliable asset for troop transport in areas inaccessible to standard vehicles. The vehicle is fully amphibious, utilizing onboard water jets or propellers for aquatic propulsion, allowing it to cross rivers and other water obstacles with ease. Offering basic ballistic protection against small arms fire and shrapnel, the GAZ-5903 ensures troop safety in hostile environments. Its ability to traverse muddy terrain, swamps, and snow makes it particularly well-suited for Vietnam's extensive riverine and coastal regions.

The inclusion of the GAZ-5903 in Vietnam's amphibious vehicle fleet reflects the nation’s emphasis on developing a modern force capable of operating across challenging terrains. With a coastline stretching over 3,200 kilometers and a vast network of rivers, amphibious capabilities are vital for Vietnam's defense strategy. These capabilities enable rapid troop deployment, logistical support, and effective response to both military and non-military challenges, such as natural disasters.

Vietnam’s amphibious strength also lies in its Marine Brigade, a specialized force within the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN). This elite unit is central to safeguarding the country’s maritime interests, particularly in contested areas like the South China Sea. The Marine Brigade comprises several battalions trained in amphibious assault techniques, coastal defense, and rapid reaction to maritime threats. Although the exact number of personnel remains classified, the force is well-structured to undertake complex operations requiring coordinated land-sea maneuvers.

The Marine Brigade is equipped with a range of vehicles and weaponry that enhance its operational effectiveness. Its armored fleet includes amphibious APCs like the BTR-60 and PT-76 light tanks, which ensure seamless transitions between water and land. Artillery units are armed with 105mm and 122mm howitzers, providing fire support during assaults. Marines also carry modern rifles, machine guns, and anti-tank weaponry, ensuring flexibility in combat scenarios. The brigade works closely with the Navy’s fleet of landing ships, including Polnocny-class vessels, to enable rapid deployment during amphibious missions.

While the GAZ-5903 plays a vital role in troop transport, logistical support, and tactical operations in coastal and riverine regions, Vietnam’s broader amphibious modernization efforts aim to blend legacy platforms with newer technologies. This strategy reflects the country’s focus on strengthening its defense posture to address evolving security challenges, including territorial disputes and natural disasters.

The Vietnam Defence Exhibition provided a platform for the nation to showcase its robust amphibious capabilities, emphasizing their importance in maintaining sovereignty and security. The inclusion of the GAZ-5903 and the capabilities of the Marine Brigade highlight Vietnam’s strategic focus on adapting its military resources to meet the unique demands of its geographical and operational landscape. Together, they demonstrate the nation’s preparedness for future challenges in both defense and disaster response, ensuring operational readiness in water-dominated environments.