Phase II of India-France bilateral exercise ‘Varuna 2023’ conducted in the Arabian Sea

The Arabian Sea hosted Phase II of the 21st iteration of Varuna (Varuna-23), a bilateral exercise between the Indian and French navies.
Both sides sent guided missile frigates, tankers, Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and integrated helicopters to the exercise.
The three-day drill included joint operations, underway replenishment, and other tactical manoeuvres.
From January 16 to 20 this year, the first phase of ‘Varuna-2023’ was conducted off India’s Western Seaboard. The bilateral exercise between the Indian and French warships began in 1993.