India-France Naval Exercise Varuna 2025 Concludes Successfully
The bilateral naval exercise Varuna 2025, held from March 19 to 22, has culminated in a significant demonstration of India-France maritime cooperation. This edition of the exercise brought together the Indian Navy and the French Navy, highlighting their enduring partnership and commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy.
Rafale-M of the French Navy and MiG-29K of the Indian Navy participated in simulated combat scenarios, refining their joint ability to counter aerial threats.Indian submarines and anti-submarine frigates of both forces deepened their understanding of underwater domain awareness and tactics. Complex coordinated manoeuvres and simulated engagements showcased the combined combat power of the participating fleets.
The two Fleet Tankers demonstrated logistical interoperability, enhancing mutual support and endurance for sustained operations.
The exercise achieved a higher degree of operational coordination between the two navies than previous editions, facilitating the exchange of best practices and fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s operational doctrines. The exercise reinforced the shared commitment to upholding the principles of a rules-based maritime order and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The Varuna exercise has been a cornerstone of India-France defence relations, underscoring 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.
