Vietnam Races to DNA-Test 18,000 Martyr Remains by July 2027

Vietnam is accelerating the DNA testing of martyrs’ remains, aiming to complete the identification of 18,000 samples by July 2027. This initiative reflects the country's long-standing tradition of gratitude towards those who sacrificed their lives for national independence and freedom. Recent ceremonies have seen the handover of remains for DNA analysis. On September 11, the Air Defence-Air Force Service, in coordination with Military Region 7 and the People's Committees of Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, and Lam Dong provinces, held a ceremony for the handover of samples. Over 7,000 samples of fallen soldiers' remains, transported from Ho Chi Minh City, were previously handed over at Gia Lam Airport in Hanoi on August 21, 2026. More than 13,500 samples of martyrs’ remains from Dong Nai, Tay Ninh and Lam Dong provinces were transported to Hanoi on September 11 for DNA testing to identify the fallen soldiers. The handover and transportation ceremony was held at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City by Military Region 7 in coordination with the Air Defence-Air Force Service and local authorities. Deputy Prime Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra inspected the practical implementation of DNA identification technology on September 14 at the Centre for DNA Identification under the Institute of Biology of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, and the Military Institute of Forensic Medicine under the Military Medical Department of the Ministry of National Defence. The continued recovery of martyrs’ remains provides valuable information and further evidence of those who fought and sacrificed their lives for national independence and freedom. It also encourages search teams to persist in locating fallen soldiers still lying on former battlefields, contributing to the effective implementation of the 500-day campaign and reflecting Vietnam’s long-standing tradition of gratitude. Under Vietnam's one-party system, honoring those who have sacrificed for the nation plays a crucial role in fostering national unity and patriotism. As Vietnam experiences significant economic growth, this deep-seated gratitude for past sacrifices underpins the contributions of its citizens. Identification through DNA testing offers closure to families and officially recognizes the contributions of the fallen. This endeavor also signifies Vietnam's commitment to strengthening social cohesion domestically while deepening international cooperation.