INS Trishul docks in Toulon as India, France launch 24th Varuna drills
INS Trishul has arrived in Toulon for the 24th edition of Varuna, the India-France bilateral maritime exercise, the Indian Navy said.
Indian Navy warship INS Trishul reached the French port city of Toulon on Tuesday to take part in the 24th edition of Varuna, the bilateral maritime exercise conducted with the French Navy.
The ship's arrival was confirmed by the Indian Navy, which said the latest round of the exercise will feature a mix of professional engagements on land and at sea.
These include cross-deck visits, operational interactions and sporting activities, all designed to improve interoperability between the two forces and give their personnel a chance to share operational experience and best practices.
The Navy said the interactions are also expected to build mutual understanding and cooperation between the Indian and French navies.
According to the Navy, the deployment of INS Trishul to France reflects the enduring maritime partnership between the two countries and the widening scope of their bilateral naval cooperation.
Varuna is a long-running exercise that alternates between Indian and French waters, and its 24th edition continues a defence relationship that spans multiple domains of maritime operations.