Group 559 was established by the North Vietnamese Army as a response to the growing need for a coherent logistical strategy to support military operations in South Vietnam. As U.S. involvement escalated in the region, particularly after the Gulf of Tonkin incident, North Vietnam recognized the necessity of maintaining a reliable supply line for its troops and equipment. This led to the creation of a dedicated division focused on overcoming the obstacles presented by difficult terrain, enemy attacks, and the limitations of available transport means. The establishment of Group 559 was achieved on May 19, 1959, with the goal of ensuring that North Vietnamese forces could sustain themselves in the heavily contested southern region.

This logistical unit undertook the daunting task of developing the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a complex series of paths and roads that traversed the mountainous jungles of Laos and Cambodia, finally reaching South Vietnam. The trail was characterized by its ruggedness and the constant threat posed by American air and ground operations. Group 559 carefully coordinated supply movements, building numerous camps and depots along this route, which became essential for transporting troops, weapons, and supplies into South Vietnam. The trail's significance cannot be understated; it served as the lifeline for North Vietnamese forces throughout the conflict, allowing for sustained military engagement against South Vietnam and the American forces supporting it.

Moreover, the trail became a symbol of resilience and determination, showcasing how the North Vietnamese were able to adapt to the challenging conditions while actively countering American military tactics. The network was ultimately expanded to include diversions and concealment techniques to evade detection, cementing its status as one of the most crucial logistical innovations during the Vietnam War.