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Exercise VARUNA 2025: Enhancing India-France Naval Cooperation

Why in the News?

The 23rd edition of Exercise VARUNA, the annual India-France bilateral naval drill, is set to take place in the Arabian Sea. Featuring INS Vikrant and Charles de Gaulle, the exercise focuses on combat readiness, interoperability, and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.

Significance of Exercise VARUNA :

• The 23rd edition of Exercise VARUNA, a bilateral naval drill between India and France, will be held in the Arabian Sea.
• Originally initiated in 1993, it was officially named ‘VARUNA’ in 2001, symbolizing the deep strategic partnership between both nations.
• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, combat readiness, and maritime security, reinforcing their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Key Participants and Military Assets

• INS Vikrant, India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, and France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier will be central to the drills.
• Participation includes fighter jets (MiG-29K, Rafale-M), destroyers, frigates, and an Indian Scorpene-class submarine.
• The exercise will cover sub-surface, surface, and aerial operations, simulating real-time combat scenarios.

Major Drills and Tactical Exercises

• Advanced air defence drills will involve mock air-to-air combat between MiG-29K and Rafale-M fighters to enhance tactical coordination.
• Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) drills will strengthen underwater domain awareness.
• Surface warfare exercises will test synchronized engagements and operational efficiency between naval fleets.
• The exercise will focus on joint operational planning, execution, and maritime security strategies, further solidifying defence ties between India and France.