Vietnamese military officers take part in a large-scale parade to mark the 50th anniversary of national reunification in Ho Chi Minh City on April 30, 2025.
At a meeting on May 12 to discuss preparations, Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Van Nghia, deputy chief of the general staff, said the parade would feature many of the same formations that took part in last month's celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification.
According to current plans, the commemorative event will involve military and civilian forces, with 11 static formations and 27 marching contingents.
General Nghia instructed the General Department of Logistics to inspect accommodation and dining facilities for troops during the training period. He also called on the General Department of Defence Industry to propose and produce the necessary equipment, uniforms and transport vehicles to ensure smooth operations.
He noted that training would take place during Hanoi's hottest months, from June to September. He urged all agencies and units to develop flexible, scientifically planned training schedules to protect troop health and ensure high-quality preparation.
Vietnam has previously held three national military parades. The first was in 1955 at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi after the Dien Bien Phu victory. The second took place on May 15, 1975, in Ho Chi Minh City to mark the liberation of the South and reunification. The third was held in 1985 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of National Day.
Ho Chi Minh City recently staged a large-scale parade to mark the 50th anniversary of national reunification. The event involved more than 13,000 marching and ceremonial unit participants and 6,000 invited guests. Hundreds of thousands of spectators lined the streets to witness the celebrations.