India-France bilateral naval exercise ‘Varuna 2023’ concludes

The 21st edition of the bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France – 'Exercise Varuna' concluded on Friday
India-France bilateral naval exercise 'Varuna 2023' concludes
India-France bilateral naval exercise 'Varuna 2023' concludes

New Delhi: The 21st edition of the bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France – 'Exercise Varuna' concludes on Friday. The exercise was commenced on January 16 at the Western Seaboard. The bilateral exercise between the two navies were initiated in 1993, it was christened as 'VARUNA' in 2001 and has become a hallmark of India – France strategic bilateral relationship.

At the culmination of five days of multifarious exercises, VARUNA yet again vividly illustrated the strong strategic partnership between France and India. Strengthening the cooperation between the two maritime forces further, it demonstrated their resolve and commitment to bolstering regional maritime security and stability.

The exercise was conducted over five days from January 16 to January 20 and witnessed advanced air defence exercises, tactical manoeuvres, surface firings, underway replenishment and other maritime operations. Units of both navies endeavoured to hone their war-fighting skills in maritime theatre, enhance their inter-operability to undertake multi-discipline operations in the maritime domain and demonstrate their ability as an integrated force to promote peace, security and stability in the region.

VARUNA is the visible representation of the excellent cooperation between the Indian and French navies in the Indian Ocean.

Having grown in scope and complexity over the years, this exercise provides an opportunity to learn from each other's best practices. The exercise facilitates operational-level interaction between the two navies to foster mutual cooperation for good order at sea, underscoring the shared commitment of both nations to security, safety and freedom of the global maritime commons.

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