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Vietnam’s VinSpace announces deal with SpaceX to launch first satellite

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-11

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Vietnam's VinSpace has partnered with SpaceX to launch its first satellites in 2027 using the Transporter ride-share program. • Why it matters: This collaboration marks a significant milestone for VinSpace, enhancing Vietnam's capabilities in space technology and aligning with the country's strategic priorities in aerospace development. • What to watch next: The upcoming satellite launch will test domestically developed technology and could pave the way for further advancements and commercialization in Vietnam's space sector.

**Vietnam’s VinSpace Partners with SpaceX for Satellite Launch**

*Hanoi, Vietnam – August 11, 2026* – VinSpace, a Vietnamese aerospace company, has officially announced its collaboration with SpaceX to launch its first satellites in 2027. The partnership, revealed on Tuesday, will utilize SpaceX’s Transporter ride-share program, allowing VinSpace to deploy its satellites into orbit in the second quarter of the upcoming year.

This venture marks a significant milestone for VinSpace, which aims to test its satellite technology in real-world conditions. The company, based in Hanoi, expressed that this initiative will not only facilitate the testing of domestically developed satellite modules but also enhance international cooperation and gradually lead to the commercialization of space technology.

VinSpace CEO Vu Trong Thu emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating, “Testing domestically developed satellite modules in orbit is an important condition for transforming the research and development capabilities of VinSpace’s engineering team into real missions.” He further noted that the contract with SpaceX represents a crucial step in VinSpace’s long-term strategy, aimed at fostering a commercial aerospace ecosystem in Vietnam and integrating the country into the global space value chain.

The announcement comes on the heels of VinSpace’s earlier declaration in April, where the company outlined its objectives to manufacture and launch its first satellites by 2027. This aligns with Vietnam's broader ambitions in space technology, which has been recognized as a national strategic priority by the ruling Communist Party since 2024. The government has placed space technology on par with other critical domains such as maritime and subterranean resources.

VinSpace is a subsidiary of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate, founded by the country’s wealthiest individual, Pham Nhat Vuong. The company was incorporated in November 2025 with a committed capital of 300 billion Vietnamese dong (approximately $11.5 million). Vuong holds a 71% stake in VinSpace, while Vingroup retains a 19% stake. Vuong’s sons, Pham Nhat Quan Anh and Pham Nhat Minh Hoang, each hold around 5% of the company.

Vietnam has a history of satellite launches, having deployed its first satellite, VINASAT-1, in 2008. The upcoming launch of VinSpace's satellites is expected to further bolster the country's capabilities in space technology and research.

As the partnership with SpaceX unfolds, VinSpace aims to leverage this opportunity to enhance its technological expertise and contribute to the growing aerospace sector in Vietnam. The collaboration not only signifies a pivotal moment for the company but also highlights Vietnam's increasing engagement in the global space industry.

Source: Al Jazeera
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