Vietnam launches new submarine rescue vessel

The VPN's new submarine rescue vessel Yet Kieu (927) during launching last 4 December 2019. Photo c/o Z189 Shipyard.

The Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) has launched its new submarine rescue vessel, which was named Yết Kiêu (927) during ceremonies at Z189 Shipyard on 4 December 2019.

The launching ceremonies was led by Vietnam’s Defense Minister, General Ngô Xuân Lịch, and attended by several high ranking defense and military officials.

Once delivered to the VPN, it would be the its first submarine rescue vessel which would allow the service to conduct submarine support and rescue missions in support of its submarine fleet without relying on other countries with similar capabilities. It will also be used for search and rescue, salvaging, maritime surveillance, and other roles.

The VPN currently operates six (6) Kilo-class diesel-electric attack submarines, and a number of smaller submarines from North Korea.

The ship’s design was based on Damen’s 93-meter submarine intervention gear ships that were built for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), the M/V Stoker and M/V Besant, which were also built in Vietnam.


[1] People’s Army Newspaper (QDND)
[2] Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Association Newspaper
[3] VietDefense