The biggest Indo-French naval exercise, Varuna-19, concluded with close range manouvers conducted by the carrier task forces of both the navies. This 17th edition of the exercise which was conducted off the Goa coast from 1-10 May 2019witnessed participation of the French Navy's aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle, two destroyers, FNS Forbin and FNS Provence, the frigate FNS Latouche-Treville, the tanker FNS Marne and a nuclear submarine. From the Indian side, the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, destroyer INS Mumbai, the Teg-class frigate, INS Tarkash, the Shishumar- class submarine, INS Shankul, and the Deepak- class fleet tanker, INS Deepakparticipated in the exercise.
The bilateral naval exercise initiated in 1983 and christened as 'Varuna' in 2001, forms a vital part of the Indo-French strategic partnership and has grown in scope and complexity over the years."Dignitaries from both navies visited the French carrier task force and were briefed on the conduct of the exercise. An impressive flypast consisting of four Rafale, five MiG 29-Ks and one Hawkeye was witnessed by Flag Officer Commander in Chief of the Western region and the French Ambassador to India and nine French dignitaries onboard the French Carrier Charles De Gaulle," said a statement issued by the Indian Navy stated.
The exercise was conducted in two phases. The harbour phase at Goa which included cross-visits, professional interactions and discussions and sports events. The sea phase comprised of various exercises across the spectrum of maritime operations.The Varuna exercise aims at developing interoperability between the two navies and fostering mutual cooperation by learning from each other's best practices to conduct joint operations. The exercise underscores the shared interests and commitment of both nations in promoting maritime security.