Dũng's Campaign 275 Offensive in Central Highlands

Dũng's Campaign 275 was a military offensive aimed at capturing the Central Highlands, specifically targeting the town of Ban Ma Thuột. The operation was characterized by the use of tanks and heavy artillery, reflecting a significant escalation in military tactics. The strategic importance of Ban Ma Thuột lay in its potential to expose the provincial capital of Pleiku and the coastal route, which would facilitate further military operations in the region. The Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) was unable to mount an effective defense against the offensive, leading to a rapid collapse of its forces. This unexpected success caught Hanoi off guard, as the speed of the campaign exceeded their expectations. Dũng, recognizing the momentum gained, urged the Politburo to authorize an immediate advance on Pleiku and subsequently on Kon Tum. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the favorable weather conditions before the onset of the monsoon season, arguing that failing to act would be a missed opportunity.