SOURCE: AFI
Varuna 2024, a joint naval exercise between India and France, has concluded with a strong focus on anti-submarine warfare (ASW). The exercise, which took place in the in the Mediterranean Sea, showcased the interoperability and capabilities of the two navies in countering underwater threats.
The French nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) Suffren played a pivotal role in the ASW drills. The Suffren, a highly advanced submarine equipped with cutting-edge technology, demonstrated its stealth and maneuverability in challenging underwater environments.
The Indian Navy’s Tabar and Provence frigates, along with the Suffren, conducted coordinated ASW operations on the surface. These warships utilized various sensors and weapons systems to detect and track potential submarine threats.
In the air, the Indian Navy’s P-8I and French Caiman maritime patrol aircraft and Dauphin helicopter joined the exercise. These aircraft provided valuable intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support, aiding in the detection and localization of submarines.
The Varuna 2024 exercise highlighted the strong cooperation between India and France in the maritime domain. The joint ASW drills demonstrated the two navies’ ability to work together effectively to counter complex threats at sea.