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Workers in the semiconductor industry. (Source: VNA)

Ahead of the French Tech Summit Vietnam 2025 Forum, set to open on May 27 in Ho Chi Minh City, a VNA correspondent in France interviewed Dr. Marko Erman, Head of the Scientific Research Office at Thales Group.

Dr. Erman highlighted Vietnam’s significant potential to become a key player in the global technology supply chain, particularly in applied artificial intelligence (AI) for defense and cybersecurity.

Reflecting on Thales' 30-year presence in the Vietnamese market, he expressed satisfaction that the partnership has consistently followed a long-term strategy through collaborations with major Vietnamese firms such as VNPT, Viettel, and FPT.

Regarding future France-Vietnam cooperation, Dr. Erman voiced optimism that recent bilateral agreements—most notably the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed between France and Vietnam—have established a strong foundation for technological investment.

Dr. Marko Erman, Head of Scientific Research Office, Thales Group. (Photo: VNA)

“Vietnam is undergoing a comprehensive digital transformation and aspires to be a major technology player in Southeast Asia,” he noted. “The signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement in October 2024 paves the way for long-term collaboration in strategic sectors, reinforcing both nations' commitment to supporting Vietnam’s technological ambitions.”

According to Erman, Thales has provided Vietnam with leading technologies in anti-submarine warfare, surveillance radar, and optoelectronics. Exchanges with the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense have been intensified over the years, "opening up positive prospects in the fields of air defense, counter-drone and naval defense."

Regarding Vietnam's ability to join Thales' global supply chain, Dr. Marko Erman said that "Vietnam's young and highly qualified workforce creates dynamism in research and development on AI and cybersecurity applications."

He also said that Thales' AI computing platforms require specialized electronic components. Given Vietnam's orientation and expertise in the electronics sector, this could be a starting point in the supply chain.

Regarding Vietnam's capacity development, Dr. Erman recommended that Vietnam continue to promote the development of science disciplines related to information technology throughout the entire university training system. In particular, he proposed "establishing basic training in AI, which can be combined with more specialized technical training on defense equipment."

According to him, building such a training program would be very useful. It is the combination of AI knowledge and understanding of military applications that will help to accurately grasp the specific requirements of AI in the defense sector.

He also emphasized the importance of "investing in advanced research on machine learning and developing sophisticated algorithms, as these are essential to accelerate innovation in cybersecurity and defense." In addition, he said that it is necessary to encourage international exchange programs and internships at prestigious research centers around the world. This will help Vietnamese experts access the latest technological advances in key areas.

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