In Hanoi’s brisk 16 °C weather, elite commandos are training shirtless as the Vietnam International Defence Expo 2026 approaches. Their determination under the cold highlights the high stakes of the upcoming showcase.

The Special Forces Command has assigned a total of 2,394 officers and soldiers to the mission. These troops are intensively rehearsing martial arts, hand‑to‑hand combat and weapons routines, following a strict programme that covers fitness, drills and coordinated operations across all unit levels.

The opening ceremony on December 10 will include a 10‑minute combat martial‑arts performance. The act will combine war drums, battle flags and synchronized combat routines, creating symbolic formations that reflect the force’s discipline and skill.

The expo itself will run from December 10 to 13 at Gia Lam Airport, featuring more than 600 exhibition booths and over 100 delegations from around the world. It is set to display a wide range of military equipment and advanced defence technologies.

Senior Lieutenant General Le Quang Dao praised the troops, saying their participation is an honour for the Vietnam People’s Army. He emphasized that the performance will enhance the prestige of the defence expo.