EXERCISE VARUNA

• The 23rd edition of the India-France naval exercise VARUNA will take place from March 19–22, 2025, in the Arabian Sea, strengthening naval cooperation between the two nations.
• Established in 2001, VARUNA enhances maritime interoperability and operational synergy between the two nations.

About VARUNA 2025

• Participants: Indian & French Navies
• Key Assets:
  • INS Vikrant (India) & Charles de Gaulle (France) – Aircraft carriers
  • MiG-29K (India) & Rafale-M (France) – Fighter aircraft
  • Destroyers, frigates, and an Indian Scorpene-class submarine
• Focus Areas: Air defence, anti-submarine warfare, surface combat, maritime patrol, and replenishment-at-sea

Significance

• Strengthens naval cooperation and Indo-Pacific security.
• Promotes a rules-based maritime order.