Phi-Truong Tai Viet-Nam [Map of Vietnamese Airfields]

Mapping early American involvement in the Vietnam War.

This rare map of Vietnam (oriented with northwest at the top) was produced by the Ministry of Public Service and Transport for the Republic of Vietnam in early 1961, as American involvement in the regional conflict began to escalate. The image outlines the nation’s transportation infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on operational airfields during three separate phases – those built prior to 1954 (red), after 1954 (green), and under construction (yellow). Runways are shown in major hubs like Saigon, Da Lat, and Da Nang, as well as remote outposts in the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta. A blue route line, written by hand, notes the path of an official inspection tour that took place in February 1961.

The map provides a unique look at the rapid infrastructure development occurring in South Vietnam, just as the inauguration of John F. Kennedy was set to increase U.S. advisory participation and covert operations. The Military Assistance Advisory Group for Vietnam recommended the construction of jet-capable airfields in December 1960, which may have compelled the indicated inspection. This strategic push transformed the airfields seen on the map into vital logistical hubs for “Air Mobility” operations, which were designed to counter guerrilla tactics through rapid troop transport, aerial surveillance, and, eventually, mass bombardment.