Context:

The 22nd edition of the India-France Bilateral Naval Exercise VARUNA took place from September 2 to 4, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea. 

Key Highlights: 

Participating Vessels: 

• The Indian Navy was represented by the stealth frigate INS Tabar, along with the Long-Range Maritime Reconnaissance (LRMR)  P-8I aircraft. 
• INS Tabar, is a stealth frigate built for the Indian Navy in Russia.
• P-8I is a long-range, multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft.
• The French Navy contributed assets including the FS Provence, submarine Suffren, and various aircraft such as the Atlantique2 and MB339 fighters.

Advanced Naval Operations: 

• Tactical Manoeuvers: Both navies demonstrated enhanced operational skills through coordinated tactical maneuvers.
• Anti-Submarine Warfare Exercises: Advanced underwater warfare techniques were practiced, underscoring the capability of both fleets to detect and neutralize sub-surface threats.
• Air Defence Exercises (FLYEX): Air defence coordination was tested using fighter jets, maritime patrol aircraft, and helicopters.
• Weapon Firings and Photo-Ex: Live weapon firing exercises were conducted to enhance combat readiness, along with a Photo-Ex to capture the combined naval might in action.

About Varuna Exercise: 

• It is the bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France.
• The Bilateral Naval Exercises between the two Navies were initiated in 1993. 
• The exercise was named as ‘VARUNA’ in 2001.

Other Indo-French Joint Exercises:

• Shakti: The Shakti exercise, held biennially between the Indian and French armies, focuses on joint military capabilities. The latest edition was conducted in Umroi, Meghalaya, with an emphasis on multi-domain operations and counter-terrorism.
• Garuda: Garuda is an India-France bilateral air force exercise. Garuda VII, the latest iteration, took place in Jodhpur, India, in 2022, involving the French Air Force.
• Desert Knight-21: Desert Knight-21, held in Jodhpur, was a joint air exercise between the Indian and French Air Forces, featuring Rafale fighter jets from both sides, aimed at enhancing interoperability.

Strengthening Interoperability: 

• The VARUNA Exercise exemplifies the dedication of both navies to enhance collaborative efforts, ensuring that they can operate seamlessly together in various maritime scenarios. 
• This commitment is crucial for addressing common security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.