The capture of the Citadel of Saigon marked a pivotal moment in the French expansion into Vietnam during the Cochinchina Campaign. The French had aimed to assert their influence over the region amidst rising tensions with the Nguyễn dynasty, which had resisted foreign encroachment. The operation involved a well-coordinated assault by the French Navy, showcasing both naval and military tactics. The Citadel, a formidable fortress located on the banks of the Saigon River, was heavily defended but ultimately succumbed to the superior firepower and strategy of the French forces.

The assault took place over several days, culminating in a decisive victory that enabled the French to control Saigon. This victory was pivotal for the French as it not only served to weaken Nguyễn resistance but also opened the door for expanded military operations throughout southern Vietnam. Following the capture, the French quickly moved to consolidate their power by establishing a colonial administration and setting the stage for the complete annexation of Cochinchina. Additionally, this event intensified hostilities in the region, resulting in prolonged conflict and resistance from local leaders and populations.

The implications of this capture were profound, as it marked the beginning of a prolonged period of colonial rule in Vietnam that would last for decades. The French colonial administration would heavily influence local governance, society, and the economy, leading to significant cultural and political changes in Vietnam. The events surrounding the capture of the Citadel of Saigon embedded themselves into the narrative of colonialism in Southeast Asia, marking the establishment of French Indochina and setting a precedent for further colonial endeavors in the region.