On the evening of April 19th, two legendary T-54 tanks, numbered 822 and 173, were transported to Mỹ Đình National Stadium. The tanks were part of the “North-South Pact” art and political program scheduled for April 22nd.
The T-54 tanks were transported using a Russian-made Maz military-style tractor trailer, designed for carrying tanks, artillery, and armored vehicles.
The tanks were covered with tarpaulins for safe transport.
Military personnel meticulously inspected the tanks before bringing them to the stadium.
Tank crew members reported that despite their age, the T-54 tanks, numbers 822 and 173, remained in good working order and highly mobile.
The first tank, number 173, was lowered onto the ground, followed by the tank commander guiding it to the designated assembly area.
A tank crew member told Dân Trí that each T-54 tank weighs 36 tons. The crew for the artistic performance consists of four personnel per tank: a commander, a driver, a loader, and a gunner.
The second tank, number 822, followed the same procedure.
The T-54 is a common tank type in the Vietnamese People’s Army’s armored forces. These “steel beasts” have achieved many significant victories in the nation’s history.
Colonel Phạm Văn Tú, director of the Vietnam Military Broadcasting and Television Center, noted the tanks’ presence as a highlight of the “North-South Pact” program, alongside the grand open-air stage.
He believes younger generations aren’t rejecting history, but that the way history is presented needs to be more relevant.
The program aims to connect the public, particularly young people, with the sacrifices of their ancestors and the realities of war, inspiring a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s independence and its commitment to peace.
The inclusion of the T-54 tanks underscores the historical context of the “North-South Pact” program, representing the fighting spirit of the Vietnamese people during the reunification of the country.
The “North-South Pact” program, featuring 800 performers, is expected to draw over 14,000 spectators. The program, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Vietnam, will air live on Vietnam’s national military television channels. The program combines historical accounts, documentaries, performances, and modern technology to convey the historical significance of this milestone.
