India-France Bilateral Naval Exercise ‘VARUNA ‘' Flashcards
NEWS
The second phase of the 21st edition of the Varuna bilateral exercise (Varuna-23) between the Indian and French Navy took place in the Arabian Sea.
ABOUT
This exercise involved the active participation of guided missile frigates, tankers, Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and integral helicopters from both sides.
The three days exercise included joint operations, underway replenishment activities, and various tactical maneuvers.
Units from both naval forces collaborated to enhance and refine their warfare capabilities, improve interoperability, and showcase their capacity to promote peace, security, and stability in the region.
The initial phase of ‘Varuna-2023’ occurred off the Western Seaboard of India from January 16 to January 20, 2023.
HISTORY
Indian and French Navy bilateral naval exercise was initiated in 1993. The exercise was later christened as ‘Varuna’ in 2001 and has since become a hallmark of robust India-France strategic bilateral relationship. Having grown in scope and complexity over the years, this exercise provides an opportunity to learn from each other’s best practices and procedures. The exercise also facilitates operational level interaction between the two Navies to foster mutual cooperation for good order at sea, underscoring the shared commitment to ensuring security, safety and freedom of the global maritime commons.
