On September 2, 2024, an Indian Navy P8i Poseidon aircraft made history by landing in France for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its European deployment. The aircraft arrived at Air Base 125 Istres-Le Tube to participate in the Indo-French naval exercise ‘Varuna.’
The 2024 edition of Exercise Varuna, scheduled from September 2 to September 4, is a key bilateral naval drill held in the Mediterranean Sea. This exercise highlights the growing strategic cooperation between India and France, focusing on advanced tactical training and interoperability.
Indian Navy spokespersons noted that this deployment is notable as it comes 63 years after the Indian Navy’s Alize aircraft last operated from Hyeres Airbase. The current exercise underscores the deepening defense collaboration between the two nations.
INS Tabar, an Indian Navy ship, has also arrived in Toulon and will join the exercise, contributing to the comprehensive naval drill. The Varuna exercise typically features guided missile frigates, tankers, maritime patrol aircraft, and helicopters from both participating navies.
The P8i Poseidon is a specialized maritime patrol aircraft developed by Boeing Defense, based on the civilian Boeing 737-800. It has been adapted for the Indian Navy to enhance maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Since its induction in 2013, the Indian Navy’s fleet of P8i Poseidon aircraft has surpassed 35,000 flight hours. These aircraft play a crucial role in coastal patrolling, search-and-rescue operations, anti-piracy missions, and supporting other military operations.
Exercise Varuna, initiated in 1993 and named in 2001, has become a symbol of the robust India-France strategic relationship. It facilitates operational-level interactions and fosters mutual cooperation to ensure maritime security and freedom.
The ongoing exercise not only showcases the advanced capabilities of the Indian Navy but also reflects the deepening strategic partnership between India and France, enhancing their combined maritime security efforts in the global maritime domain.