Vietnam’s Truong Sa Islands (also known as the Spratly Islands) are enjoying a rare level of all-around growth and development. Civilians and soldiers on the islands have been working side by side, not only to build the islands’ communities, but to safeguard the nation as well.

The islands, which are located towards the southern edge of the East Sea, include over 100 islands, reefs and atolls. They cover a total area of about 170 square kilometres, with uprising lands of the islands occupying just 10 square kilometres.

Upon visiting the Vietnamese territory of the islands, the whole of this work team, No 10, was unable to express in words their feelings when they set foot on the islands for the first time and witnessed the cozy lives and solidarity of the local residents and soldiers.

Below are several pictures highlighting the unique features of Truong Sa:

Truong Sa soldiers welcome guests

National landmarks of Truong Sa

Lighthouse on Song Tu Tay Island

“Phong ba” tree...

... “Bao tap” tree...

...and the “Bang vuong” tree which grows only on Truong Sa

The islands’ electricity is provided by wind power…

…as well as solar power. This technology, which powers the entire island group, has not yet been used on the mainland.

Mobile coverage helps reduce the distance from island to mainland

Weather information is checked daily for the Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting of the Southern and Central areas

Fishing is a primary livelihood on the islands

Houses are well-equipped

All residents here revere Uncle Ho

Here vegetable is particularly precious

Saltwater fish enriches daily meals

Dogs are looked after carefully

Cows are a rather “rare” animal…

…and pigs…

…as well as ducks splash in the surf.

Military notices are strictly upheld

Beds kept neat and tidy according to military discipline

Soldiers taking care of a routine haircut after work

Sport activities

Naval soldiers guarding and protecting the Truong Sa islands for the sovereignty of the country