Naval ship Tabar participates in India-France mega naval exercise 'Varuna'

The navies of India and France carried out a mega wargame in the Mediterranean Sea in reflection of their common strategic interest in the maritime domain.

Indian naval ship Tabar and long-range maritime surveillance aircraft P-8I participated in the 22nd edition of the Varuna exercise, the Indian Navy said.

The mega exercise took place from September 2 to 4.

In addition to INS Tabar, the Indian Navy was represented by the ship borne helicopters at the exercise.

The French side was represented by frontline ship FS Provence, submarine Suffren, fighters MB339 and helicopters NH90; Dauphin.

A series of advanced naval operations were conducted during the exercise, involving enhanced tactical manoeuvers, advanced anti-submarine warfare exercises, air defence drills and live weapon firings, the Navy said.

The bilateral exercise Varuna, which began in 2001 is the backbone of India-France naval ties and has evolved significantly over the years towards enhancing interoperability and excha