Vietnam Military History Museum: Officially opened, free for visitors

Vietnam Military History Museum is a must-visit attraction in Hanoi, especially if you are a history enthusiast. Officially opened on November 1, 2024, this museum showcases a wealth of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that highlight Vietnam's military achievements and struggles throughout history.

Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)

Updated on Oct 17, 2024

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Table of contents

1. Overview of The Museum
2. Outdoor exhibition area
3. Indoor exhibition area
4. The epic tale of Vietnam's enduring resistance

1. Overview of The Museum

Location: Tay Mo and Dai Mo, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi

*Overview of the Vietnam Military History Museum*

Featuring a modern design, the museum serves as both a historical display and an interactive space for visitors to engage with the Vietnamese People's Army's struggle for independence. It incorporates innovative display methods, such as 3D mapping, information screens, automated audio guides, and QR codes, along with over 60 video clips showcasing campaigns, battles, and historical figures, providing a fresh visitor experience.

>>> Good to know:

Starting from November 1, 2024, the Vietnam Military History Museum will officially open its doors to visitors, offering free admission until the end of December 2024.

2. Outdoor exhibition area

The museum features an outdoor exhibition area on the right side, showcasing weapons and equipment used by the Vietnamese Army during their resistance against French and American invasions, as well as for training and defense. Notable items include the 85mm artillery, 57mm anti-aircraft gun, PT67 tank (designated 555), MiG 17 (designated 2047), and SU22 aircraft.

*Military equipment used by the Vietnamese Army*

The right side displays military equipment from the French and American forces during the Vietnam War, including artillery, infantry fighting vehicles, and tanks. A highlight is the M-107 self-propelled howitzer (175mm), known as the "King of the Battlefield," along with American aircraft like the A37, F5E, CH47, C130, and various bombs used in the conflict.

*The types of artillery and military vehicles used by American and French forces*

3. Indoor exhibition area

On either side of the building, there are symbolic installations representing the aspiration for peace, featuring branches, green sprouts, and doves rising from the wreckage of an aircraft. This display symbolizes Vietnam's desire for peace and its recognition of the value of peace with countries around the world.

*The symbol of Vietnam's aspiration for peace*

The main hall showcases the "Silver Swallow" MiG-21, with the designation 4324. This aircraft was officially recognized as a national treasure by the Prime Minister on January 14, 2015, due to its significant contributions during the resistance period.

*The legendary MiG-21 aircraft, designated 4324, known as the Silver Swallow*

4. The epic tale of Vietnam's enduring resistance

Theme 1: The early stages of establishing and defending the nation
Theme 2: Preserving independence from 939 to 1858
Theme 3: Fighting against French colonialism and striving for national independence from 1858 to 1945
Theme 4: The resistance against French invasion between 1945 and 1954
Theme 5: The fight against American forces from 1954 to 1975
Theme 6: Building and safeguarding the nation from 1976 to the present day

*Description of the battles and equipment of the Vietnamese Army*

The themes are organized chronologically with a logical layout, and each artifact is clearly labeled with event information. Various presentation formats are used, including text, inquiry screens, media documentation, automated audio guides, and QR codes for accessing details about the artifacts and images.

*The military equipment of the Vietnamese Army*

*T-54B tank used in the campaign to liberate Southern Vietnam*

*Reenactment of the battle scenes of Vietnamese soldiers*

*Artillery used in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu*

*Types of weapons used by the Vietnamese Army*

The Vietnam Military History Museum is a key cultural and historical institution commemorating the 80th anniversary of the People’s Army of Vietnam and related milestones. It serves as a repository of military heritage and symbolizes patriotism, offering future generations a place to explore and learn from Vietnam’s rich historical legacy.