Both India and Vietnam demonstrate ambivalence in their relations with China. Given China's revisionist policies, the strategic partnership between India and Vietnam has intensified, motivated by mutual apprehensions regarding Chinese assertiveness. The primary focus of the research paper lies in scrutinizing the defense and security aspects of the India-Vietnam relationship, with specific attention to the influence exerted by China. However, the paper highlights a disparity between the actual trajectory of bilateral relations between Vietnam and India and the anticipated outcomes, underscoring the imperative for diversification in their relationship.