Visakhapatnam: The bilateral naval exercise “Varuna 2025” between the Indian Navy and the French Navy (Marine Nationale) concluded at Visakhapatnam on Saturday. This edition of the exercise encompassed exercises spanning multiple operational domains.
The structured drills were designed to further refine tactical and operational proficiency in complex scenarios. Advanced air-defence drills featuring the French Navy’s Rafale (Marine) and Indian Navy’s MIG-29K, which simulated realistic combat scenarios, enhanced the participating units’ joint capability to counter aerial threats. Anti-submarine-warfare exercises involving an Indian submarine and anti-submarine frigates from both forces focused on deepening understanding and proficiency in underwater domain awareness and tactics.
Surface-warfare operations comprised complex coordinated manoeuvres and simulated engagements, demonstrating the combined combat power of the participating fleets. Replenishment at sea exercises conducted by the two fleet tankers demonstrated logistical interoperability and enhanced mutual support and endurance for sustained operations.
This iteration of the exercise achieved a higher degree of operational coordination between the two navies compared with previous editions.
The exercise fulfilled its aim of enhanced joint operations and reinforced the shared commitment to upholding the principles of a rules-based maritime order and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
The complex drills provided invaluable operational experience, strengthening the collective capacity to address contemporary maritime security challenges.
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The exercise facilitated the crucial exchange of “best practices”, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's operational doctrines and enhancing the two navies’ ability to operate seamlessly in complex maritime environments. Since its inception, the Varuna exercise has been a cornerstone of India-France defence relations, with both countries recognizing the importance of maritime security and collaborative defence efforts.
France and India share a strong commitment to safeguarding global sea lanes and addressing shared maritime security challenges.
