Why in the news?

• The 19th edition of the Indian and French Navy bilateral exercise ‘VARUNA-2021’ is scheduled to be conducted in the Arabian Sea from 25th to 27th April 2021.

News in detail

• The three day exercise will see high tempo-naval operations at sea, including 
  • advanced air defence and anti-submarine exercises, 
  • intense fixed and rotary wing flying operations, 
  • tactical manoeuvres, 
  • surface and anti-air weapon firings, 
  • underway replenishment and other maritime security operations. 
• Units of both navies will endeavour to enhance their war-fighting skills to demonstrate their ability as an integrated force to promote peace, security and stability in the maritime domain.

Significance

• VARUNA-21 highlights growing bonhomie and showcases increased levels of synergy, coordination and inter-operability between the two friendly navies. 
• These interactions further underscore the shared values as partner navies, in ensuring freedom of seas and commitment to an open, inclusive Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order.