The Indian and French Navies successfully conducted the Varuna 2025 bilateral naval exercise from March 19 to 22, further strengthening their strategic partnership and commitment to ensuring maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
The exercise included a series of advanced drills, such as air defense exercises, anti-submarine warfare operations, and surface combat maneuvers. These activities were aimed at enhancing the interoperability and operational capabilities of both navies, as stated by the Indian Navy in its official release.
Held from March 19 to 22, the Varuna 2025 exercise showcased the enduring partnership between the Indian Navy and the French Navy. The event featured complex drills across multiple domains, enhancing both tactical and operational proficiency. Advanced air defense exercises involved the French Navy's Rafale-M and the Indian Navy's MIG-29K, simulating real-world combat scenarios to refine the units' ability to jointly counter aerial threats.
In addition, anti-submarine warfare exercises saw Indian submarines working alongside anti-submarine frigates from both navies to improve their underwater domain awareness and combat tactics. The surface warfare operations included intricate coordinated maneuvers and simulated engagements, demonstrating the combined strength and capabilities of the participating fleets. Additionally, the Replenishment at Sea exercises carried out by the two Fleet Tankers emphasized logistical interoperability, showcasing mutual support and endurance for prolonged operational engagements.
This year’s exercise marked a significant improvement in operational coordination between the two navies compared to previous editions.
The primary objective of Varuna 2025 was to enhance jointness and reinforce the shared commitment to a rules-based maritime order while promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific. The exercises provided invaluable operational experience, bolstering both nations’ capacity to tackle contemporary maritime security challenges. The event also allowed for the exchange of best practices, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's operational doctrines and improving the navies' ability to work seamlessly in complex maritime environments.
Since its inception, the Varuna exercise has been a key element of India-France defense relations, with both nations acknowledging the importance of maritime security and cooperative defense efforts.
Both India and France have a long-standing commitment to safeguarding global sea lanes and addressing common maritime security challenges.
In a post shared on X, the Navy highlighted the success of the third day of Varuna 2025, saying, "A Unified Display of Naval Coordination! Day 3 of VARUNA 2025 consolidated the drills undertaken on Day 2, showcasing the cohesive execution of advanced naval drills between the Indian Navy and the French Navy. The joint exercises focused on enhancing operational synergy & demonstrating their collective maritime capabilities, reinforcing a strong foundation of collaboration and trust." (Source: ANI)
