India, France Conduct VARUNA 2025 Naval Drills

On 19th March 2025, the Indian and French Navies commenced the 23rd edition of the VARUNA naval exercise, focusing on strengthening operational coordination and maritime security.

The exercise, running until 22nd March, is a key element of India-France maritime cooperation, which began in 2001 and has grown into a strong naval partnership.
Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and French Navy’s FS Charles de Gaulle are leading the drills, alongside destroyers, frigates, and an Indian Scorpene-class submarine.
The exercise includes multi-domain operations covering underwater, surface, and aerial warfare, enhancing combat readiness and interoperability between the two navies.
Fighter aircraft from both sides, including India’s MiG-29K and France’s Rafale-M, will engage in advanced air defense drills and mock aerial combat simulations.
Anti-submarine warfare exercises will focus on detecting and neutralizing underwater threats, improving collaborative submarine tracking and response capabilities.
Surface warfare drills will involve coordinated ship movements, tactical maneuvers, and simulated missile engagements, reinforcing fleet coordination in complex combat scenarios.