Indian Naval Ship (INS) Trishul participated in the 24th edition of Exercise VARUNA, the annual bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the French Navy, reaffirming the strong and enduring maritime partnership between the two countries.
INS Trishul arrived at Toulon, France, on September 22, 2026, and received a warm welcome from the French Navy, including a ceremonial water cannon salute.
The harbour phase of the exercise featured a series of professional, sporting and cultural engagements aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and fostering deeper professional ties between personnel of the two navies.
During the sea phase, INS Trishul operated alongside several frontline assets of the French Navy, including FDA Forbin, FLF La Fayette and the nuclear-powered attack submarine (SNA) Suffren. The exercise also involved NH90 helicopters and Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft.
Complex operational drills, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and live-firing exercises, were conducted to enhance interoperability, operational coordination and tactical synergy between the two naval forces. Cross-deck helicopter landing operations further demonstrated the high level of integration achieved during the exercise.
The visit underscored the shared commitment of India and France to strengthening maritime engagement, expanding professional exchanges and enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
As part of the engagements, INS Trishul hosted a cultural reception onboard, attended by Vice Admiral (Retd.) Laurent Isnard, Deputy Mayor of Toulon, along with officers of the French Navy and other civil dignitaries.
A friendly volleyball match between Indian and French naval personnel further promoted camaraderie and mutual understanding.
The crew of INS Trishul also visited key French naval platforms, including aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, Forbin and La Fayette, gaining valuable insights into carrier operations, aviation facilities and onboard operational practices.
Exercise VARUNA remains a cornerstone of the India-France strategic partnership, providing a vital platform for enhancing mutual trust, operational interoperability and maritime security cooperation between the two navies.
