First Time In 63 Years: Indian Navy Lands In France For Bilateral Exercise

New Delhi: The Indian Navy’s long-range maritime patrol aircraft, P-8I, touched down at Air Base 125 Istres-Le Tubé in France, marking its first-ever deployment in Europe, the Navy said on Monday.

The aircraft will participate in the 22nd edition of bilateral exercise, Varuna with the French Navy. This deployment is significant as it comes 63 years after the Indian Naval Alizé aircraft, operating from INS Vikrant, last flew at Hyères Airbase.

“This advanced tactical exercise underscores the deepening synergy and mutual respect between our navies,” a statement from the Navy read.

Last year, the navies from both the countries had conducted a bilateral exercise in the Arabian Sea for three days.

The exercise had witnessed participation of guided missile frigates, tanker, Maritime Patrol Aircraft and integral helicopters from both sides.

They had held joint operations, underway replenishment and various tactical maneuvers during the Phase II of the 21st edition of Varuna.

In the first phase of Varuna, the navies enhanced their fighting skills, improved interoperability and demonstrated their abilities to promote, peace, security and stability in the region.