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.
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