The India-France joint naval exercise was initiated in 1993 and christened with its current name, Exercise Varuna, in 2001
In a significant demonstration of growing Indo-French naval cooperation, the Indian Navy's P-8I aircraft has made its first-ever deployment in Europe, landing at Air Base 125 Istres-Le Tube in France. This deployment marks a historic moment as the aircraft joins the French Navy for the 22nd edition of Exercise Varuna, a biennial bilateral naval exercise that underscores the deepening synergy between the two nations' maritime forces.
 
The arrival of the P-8I aircraft on European soil comes 63 years after the Indian Navy's Alize aircraft, operating from the erstwhile INS Vikrant, last flew at Hyeres Airbase in France. This long-awaited return symbolizes the enduring relationship between India and France, as both nations continue to expand their strategic ties, particularly in the maritime domain.
 
The Varuna exercise, initiated in 1993 and christened with its current name in 2001, has evolved into a key component of the India-France strategic bilateral relationship. The 22nd edition of Exercise Varuna is being conducted in the Mediterranean Sea from September 2-4, 2024. It will involve advanced tactical exercises designed to enhance interoperability and operational capabilities between the two navies.
 
The Indian Navy's P-8I aircraft, renowned for its maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, will play a pivotal role in these exercises and it joins the INS Tabar. The P-8I’s participation in Exercise Varuna reflects the growing sophistication and complexity of the joint operations between the Indian and French navies.
 
In a post on social media platform X on Monday (September 2, 2024), the Indian Navy Spokesperson expressed the significance of this deployment: “Soaring High in Indo-French Cooperation! #IndianNavy’s P-8I aircraft touched down at Air Base 125 Istres-Le Tube, marking its #firstever deployment in Europe for the 22nd edition of Exercise #Varuna with the #FrenchNavy.”
 
The Varuna series of exercises has grown in scope and complexity over the years, providing both navies with invaluable opportunities to learn from each other's best practices. The exercise has become a principal driver of interaction at the operational level, facilitating cooperation to maintain good order at sea and ensuring the security, safety, and freedom of the global maritime commons.
 
The bilateral naval exercises between India and France are not merely symbolic but serve as a platform for the exchange of knowledge, tactics, and operational experience.
 
The participation of various units, including ships, submarines, fighter aircraft, maritime patrol aircraft, and helicopters, further enhances the scope of these exercises. The diverse array of assets involved ensures that the exercises cover a broad spectrum of naval operations, from anti-submarine warfare to air defence and maritime security operations.
 
The Varuna exercise is not just about military manoeuvres; it reflects the broader strategic relationship between India and France. The two countries have a long history of defence cooperation, with shared interests in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. France has been a key partner for India in its efforts to modernize its naval forces, and the Varuna exercises are a testament to the strength of this partnership.
 
Exercise Varuna 2024 will see high-tempo naval operations at sea, including advanced air defence and anti-submarine warfare exercises, as well as complex fixed and rotary-wing flying operations. The exercises will also feature cross-deck helicopter landings, tactical manoeuvres, surface and anti-air weapon firings, underway replenishments, and other maritime security operations.
 
Units from both navies will hone their warfighting skills, demonstrating their ability to function as an integrated force capable of promoting peace, security, and stability in the maritime domain. The seamless coordination, precise execution of manoeuvres, and accuracy in complex operations will characterize the conduct of Exercise Varuna 2024, further strengthening mutual confidence, interoperability, and the sharing of best practices between the two navies.
 
The previous editions of Varuna have consistently showcased the high level of professionalism and mutual respect that exists between the Indian and French naval forces. Each iteration of the exercise has built upon the successes of the previous ones, contributing to a deeper understanding of each other's operational procedures and enhancing the overall effectiveness of joint maritime operations.