Vietnam’s armed robots, elite police showcase counterterrorism tactics during public security games

The Ministry of Public Security held the opening ceremony for the 2026 People’s Public Security Sports, Martial Arts, and Military Games – Region 2, featuring martial arts demonstrations and live-fire performances by special police and mobile police forces.

The event was organized as part of activities marking the 80th anniversary of the traditional day of the people’s security force (July 12, 1946–July 12, 2026).

More than 3,000 athletes and performers from 16 military and martial arts teams and 18 sports teams representing units under the Ministry of Public Security took part in this year’s competition.

The opening ceremony began with a drum performance by nearly 1,000 cadets from the People’s Security Academy. The rhythmic drumbeats created a festive atmosphere for the event.

The program continued with martial arts performances by Lao security cadets studying in Vietnam and qigong demonstrations by special police officers.

The appearance of the mobile police cavalry unit in front of Ngo Mon drew enthusiastic applause from spectators.

Under the skilled control of police officers, the horses navigated obstacles and took part in a simulated operation to suppress criminals.

One of the most impressive performances was a close-protection demonstration by officers from the Security Guard Command.

In the simulated scenario, the president of a fictitious country was visiting Vietnam when heavily armed terrorists launched an attack during the motorcade’s movement.

Security officers immediately used shields to protect the dignitary and ensure his safety, while using firearms concealed in briefcases to return fire and neutralize the terrorist group.

The program then moved to a simulated assault on terrorists barricaded inside a building, featuring the appearance of an armed robot used by the special police force.

Mounted on a tracked platform, the robot maneuvered across rough terrain and was equipped with four launch tubes for smoke and tear-gas grenades.

Its primary weapon was a mounted machine gun positioned above the grenade launchers. As it approached the area occupied by the terrorists, the robot continuously fired suppressive shots, creating openings for special police officers to overcome obstacles and launch their assault.

The sounds of gunfire from both the robot and the special police officers drew admiration and repeated applause from residents and visitors attending the event.

Another robot showcased during the ceremony belonged to the fire prevention, firefighting and rescue police force. Working alongside modern fire engines, the firefighting robot generated powerful streams of water to help contain a simulated blaze involving a gasoline tanker truck.

The opening ceremony concluded with a 10-minute high-altitude fireworks display, bringing to a close an evening of demonstrations of martial arts, shooting skills, horseback riding, and advanced driving techniques by People’s Public Security forces.