* North Vietnam: The Democratic Republic of Vietnam (DRV) was a communist state in northern Vietnam. It was led by Ho Chi Minh and the Lao Dong Party. The DRV was supported by the Soviet Union, China, and other communist countries.
* South Vietnam: The Republic of Vietnam (RVN) was a pro-Western state in southern Vietnam. It was led by Ngo Dinh Diem and then a series of military juntas. The RVN was supported by the United States, France, and other anti-communist countries.
* United States: The United States was the main supporter of South Vietnam. It provided military and financial aid, as well as troops. The United States also conducted bombing campaigns against North Vietnam.
* Soviet Union: The Soviet Union was the main supporter of North Vietnam. It provided military and financial aid, as well as troops. The Soviet Union also deployed surface-to-air missiles to North Vietnam to help defend it against American bombing raids.
* China: China was another important supporter of North Vietnam. It provided military and financial aid, as well as troops. China also fought a border war with India in 1962, which diverted Indian resources away from the Vietnam War.
* Other Countries: Other countries that provided support to either side in the Vietnam War included France, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, and the Philippines.