Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) market could reach 10 billion USD and generate about 1 million jobs by 2035, according to the Vietnam Low-Altitude Economy Alliance (LAEP), highlighting strong potential for domestic technology firms to invest in research, production and services.
From pilot projects to practical applications
Ho Chi Minh City’s Department of Science and Technology has recently partnered with the Management Board of Saigon Hi-Tech Park (SHTP) and technology firms to pilot UAV-based delivery services within SHTP.
Though currently limited to short-distance routes, the trial represents an initial step towards integrating UAVs into daily life in Vietnam’s largest economic hub. Based on performance results, participating companies plan to expand flight ranges, potentially covering routes such as from Can Gio to Vung Tau, to support logistics across a growing metropolitan area.
Tran Anh Tuan, Director of Saolatek, a UAV developer based in SHTP, said the pilot programme allows companies to provide practical data and operational experience, contributing to the development of an appropriate legal framework for the civilian use of UAVs.
Similar initiatives have been rolled out in other localities. In late December 2025, Duc Giang General Hospital in Hanoi and Vietnam Post tested UAVs for transporting medical samples, pharmaceuticals and supplies within a 10-kilometre radius.
Chairman of the Board of Members of Vietnam Post Nguyen Truong Giang said the company is exploring UAVs as a new delivery service to improve speed and efficiency amid worsening urban traffic congestion. The Duc Giang Hospital expects the model to significantly shorten transport time for samples and medical supplies, enhancing operational responsiveness.
Earlier, during severe floods in the central and Central Highlands regions in October and November 2025, Viettel conducted nearly 300 UAV flights to deliver essential goods and support emergency relief efforts. Le Tuan Anh, Deputy Director of Viettel Post, said UAV systems originally developed for commercial logistics proved effective in disaster response, demonstrating strong adaptability and operational readiness.
Manufacturing momentum gathers pace
Growing demand is also driving investment in UAV manufacturing. In November 2025, Gremsy JSC began construction of a factory at SHTP with an initial investment of 550 billion VND (21 million USD). Founded in 2011, Gremsy develops gimbals, payloads and camera modules for UAVs, with plans to launch 50–100 new products annually.
Director Tran Quoc Vinh said Gremsy’s products have been exported to 83 countries, with North America contributing more than half of its revenue, noting that the company aims to expand its role within Vietnam’s UAV supply chain.
SHTP’s UAV ecosystem also includes Saolatek, which emerged from a high-tech startup incubator. Its products have been marketed in several international markets and are regarded as competitive in quality.
At the national level, major conglomerates are increasingly entering the sector. CT Group recently established CT UAV and built a research and manufacturing facility in Thuan An ward, Ho Chi Minh City. The company has unveiled three UAV models for surveillance, firefighting and smart agriculture, including an AI-powered firefighting hexarotor capable of hose guidance, foam spraying and deploying fire-extinguishing balls.
CT Group has also announced plans for a 400-hectare UAV industrial complex in Tay Ninh province. According to Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee Doan Trung Kien, the project is envisioned as a strategic high-tech hub linked to digital data development and a comprehensive UAV ecosystem.
Meanwhile, FPT Corp. has expressed early interest in UAV manufacturing. During a recent survey of the science, technology and innovation ecosystem in the Binh Duong area, FPT General Director Nguyen Van Khoa said the group hopes to work with local authorities on policies for the low-altitude economy and secure around 200 hectares of land for UAV production./.
