The Struggle of North Vietnam’s Air Force in the Vietnam War

During the Vietnam War, the North Vietnamese Air Force (North Vietnam Air Force, VPAF) faced significant challenges, from the outdated equipment to poorly trained pilots. This article explores the strength and limitations of the VPAF and compares it with the superior U.S. Air Force (USAF). From the aircraft and tactics employed to the key aces and missions, we shall delve into the detailed history and impact of the VPAF.

Equipment and Training

North Vietnam’s Air Force, officially known as the Vietnam People’s Air Force, was greatly influenced by its Soviet allies. The VPAF was primarily comprised of older Russian aircraft, including the Su-22, Su-27, Mi-8/Mi-17, and the C-295M. These planes, compared to the advanced F-4 Phantoms, AC-130 Specter, and SR-71 Blackbird of the USAF, were technologically inferior and posed a significant disadvantage in air combat. Moreover, the pilots of the VPAF, though trained in the USSR, faced challenges due to their lack of combat training and experience.

Operational Strength and Tactics

The VPAF operated with a limited force. At its maximum, the VPAF had only around three regiments and approximately 100 fighter aircraft, which compared unfavorably to the thousands of US fighters. The typical formation of a VPAF interceptor consisted of four aircraft using CGI guidance to approach enemy formations at a high speed, hitting the target, and then retreating quickly for safety. This tactic, while effective in disrupting US strike groups, was not sufficient to achieve air superiority.

Notable Aces and Tactics

Despite the limitations, the VPAF had several notable aces, including Nguyen Van Coc, a pilot who claimed 9 victories. The NVAF (North Vietnam Air Force) claimed to have had 20 aces, but the US only recognized three aces. The Mig-21 was the favorite aircraft of the VPAF, known for its high-speed pass through an American bomber formation and then diving away, effectively evading enemy fire.

Operation Linebacker 2: A Turning Point

One of the most significant operations involving the VPAF was Operation Linebacker 2. During this operation, the VPAF successfully disrupted US formations, enabling the North Vietnamese air defense missile systems (SAMs) to target and destroy numerous B-52 bombers and fighters. The last US fighter shot down in the Vietnam War was also credited to the VPAF. These missions demonstrated the VPAF’s ability to hinder US operations, even with inferior technology.

Conclusion

While the North Vietnamese Air Force faced numerous challenges during the Vietnam War, it managed to make significant contributions to the overall war effort through its limited resources and innovative tactics. Despite being outmatched technologically, the VPAF was a formidable force in air defense and a disruptive element in US air operations.

VPAF Key Points:

Equipment: Old Russian planes (Su-22, Su-27, Mi-8, C-295M) Key Aces: Nguyen Van Coc (9 victories) Tactics: High-speed passes, low-dive attacks, SEAD disruption Notable Operation: Operation Linebacker 2, where they successfully disrupted US formations, contributed to the downing of 33 B52 bombers and 30 fighters