Dien Bien proposed 200 billion VND UAV ecosystem

OSB Group has proposed a nearly 200 billion VND investment to develop a comprehensive UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) ecosystem in Dien Bien province, Vietnam. The proposal includes three main components: a UAV manufacturing plant, a testing and flight practice center, and a center for introducing and training in UAV, aviation, and aerospace technologies.

The proposed testing center, located in Muong Lay town, would cover approximately 10,700 square meters and include flight corridors, UAV airports, seaplane airports, and control towers. The manufacturing facility is planned for either Muong Lay or Dien Bien Phu ward, covering about 5,500 square meters for tasks such as precision mechanics, electronic assembly, and testing.

On a broader scale, Vietnam is positioning UAV technology as a strategic sector for applications in agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure management. While domestic companies have achieved an average localization rate of 70% and are exporting to markets like the US and Europe, experts suggest a phased approach to R&D. This involves moving from system integration and software toward mastering critical components like specialized engines, batteries, and autonomous systems to fully participate in the low-altitude economy.