New Delhi: The Indian Navy’s frontline stealth frigate, INS Tabar, recently concluded a successful visit to Toulon, France and participated in the 22nd edition of the Indo-French Bilateral Exercise VARUNA from September 2 to September 4, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea. Commanded by Captain MR Harish, INS Tabar was part of an extensive joint naval exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and strengthening the maritime partnership between the Indian and French navies.
The Indian Navy was represented by INS Tabar, accompanied by a shipborne helicopter and Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance (LRMR) Aircraft P8I, while the French Navy deployed the frigate FS Provence, the Submarine Suffren, Aircraft F20, and Atlantique2, along with MB339 fighters and NH90 and Dauphin helicopters.
The bilateral exercise featured a series of advanced naval operations, including tactical maneuvers, anti-submarine warfare exercises, FLYEX, Air Defence Exercise, live weapon firings, PHOTO-EX, and a Steam Past, showcasing seamless integration of air, surface, and sub-surface assets from both navies.
Exercise VARUNA, initiated in 2001, serves as the cornerstone of the Indian Navy (IN) and French Navy (FN) relationship. Over the years, it has evolved into a significant platform for sharing best practices and enhancing cooperation between the two forces. This year’s exercise in the Mediterranean Sea marks a milestone in the maritime collaboration between India and France, underscoring the Indian Navy’s commitment to sustained operations far beyond the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).