EXERCISE VARUNA
- Event Overview:
- The 23rd edition of the bilateral naval exercise VARUNA 2025 is set to take place from March 19 to 22, marking a continuation of the strong defence ties between India and France.
- The exercise began in 2001 and has grown into a significant annual collaboration.
- Participating Vessels & Aircraft:
- Indian Navy: Aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, Scorpene-class submarine, and other naval assets.
- French Navy: Aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, along with fighter aircraft, destroyers, and frigates.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF VARUNA 2025
- Advanced Naval Drills: High-intensity exercises will cover multiple domains:
- Sub-surface: Anti-submarine warfare drills focusing on enhancing underwater domain awareness.
- Surface: Operations testing the coordination for synchronized surface engagements and maneuvers.
- Aerial: Advanced air defence drills and mock air-to-air combat between French Rafale-M and Indian MiG-29K fighter jets.
- Strategic Focus:
- Strengthening tactical coordination and improving combat readiness.
- Maritime patrol aircraft to ensure real-time intelligence sharing and situational awareness.
- Replenishment-at-sea operations to bolster logistical cooperation, reinforcing the navies’ ability to conduct sustained operations.
BROADER SIGNIFICANCE
- VARUNA 2025 serves as a symbol of military capability and commitment to a free, open, and secure maritime environment.
- It highlights the growing strategic partnership between India and France, contributing to regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
- Future Implications:
- VARUNA continues to play a key role in enhancing the maritime collaboration between the two countries, ensuring enhanced defence readiness and further integration in the face of evolving global maritime challenges.
By participating in this exercise, India and France reaffirm their resolve to strengthen bilateral defence ties and work towards a secure and cooperative maritime future.
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