Indo-French Navy reiterate mutual support as countries battle with COVID-19

history of Indian and French Navies conducting maritime exercises goes back to deces. It started in 1993 and has been continuing since n bringing two countries toger in combating security challenges. In 2001, se maritime exercises were called ''VARUNA''. With a year since 17th edition of VARUNA completing on 7th May 2020, countries reiterate mutual support in dealing with all kinds of challenges.

On 7th May 2019, Navies of India and France kicked off a huge maritime exercise off coast of Goa. While India h INS Vikramitya, INS Mumbai, INS Tarkash, INS Shankul, and INS Deepak to participate, France h a nuclear submarine, FNS Marne, FNS Latouche- Treville, FNS Provenance and FNS Forbin to conduct exercise.

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'Unprecedented Scale'

At completion of a year, France calls exercise of an ''unprecedented scale''. ''A year ago, on 7th May 2019, 17th edition of Varuna, Indo-French naval exercise, was kicked off on an unprecedented scale. Twelve vessels were involved in tri-dimensional air, surface and underwater drills. Reaching a decisive phase in interoperability, it heralded a joint maritime surveillance mission to be conducted in French Exclusive Economic Zone in February 2020 with an Indian patrol aircraft and a French surveillance frigate'' re a statement from Embassy.

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conduct of such practise operation is aimed to help two Navies develop a strong understanding between each or while y get to learn best of ir practices. As combat tactics are different for different aircraft, a joint session equips both sides. Apart from it, professional interactions between officials are organised so y could stand united when required. While both countries are fighting Coronavirus, Navies of India and France are ''fully engaged'' and rey to aid people.

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''During this period of public health crisis, Indian and French navies are fully engaged in Samudra Setu and Resilience operations respectively to aid people facing ordeal of COVID-19 epidemic. In 2020, two navies continue to maintain ir cooperation efforts, which are a cornerstone of strategic partnership between France and India'', re statement from Embassy of France in India.

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