Vietnam is capable of becoming a global unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturing hub, thanks to its strengths in workforce, supply chain, affordable cost, and high domestic demand, said Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung.

On a Friday post on the ministry’s website, Minister Nguyen Manh Hung said Vietnam, along with China, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea, are part of the East Asia supply chain for UAVs. Vietnam’s position within this supply chain with chips, cameras, sensors, motors and batteries gives the country logistical advantages for production of UAVs.

Another advantage is Vietnam’s strong software and AI capabilities. The important components of modern UAVs include navigation, computer vision, autonomy and AI control systems. While software determines the core value of a UAV, Vietnam has a large pool of software engineers, a rapidly developing AI sector, and relatively-low research and development costs, which together facilitate innovation.

Additionally, Vietnam has a competitive, low-cost manufacturing base, according to Nguyen Manh Hung. UAVs are lightweight electronic and mechanical products produced in modular form, which fits well with Vietnam’s manufacturing ecosystem and technical workforce.

Besides, Vietnam offers a strong domestic demand for UAVs, such as for agriculture, power line inspection, forest and maritime monitoring, and logistics. The domestic market can nurture businesses.

He also affirmed that it is more likely that Vietnam can become a global “powerhouse” in UAV, in comparison to semiconductors and electric vehicles. The Ministry of Science and Technology is committed to helping tech firms in research & development and product commercialization, the minister affirmed.

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