22nd edition of Exercise Varuna

Current Context: The 22nd edition of Exercise Varuna, the Indo-French bilateral naval exercise, is being conducted in the Mediterranean Sea from September 2 to 4, 2024.

• This year’s exercise is notable for the first-ever European deployment of the Indian Navy’s P-8I aircraft, which has landed at Air Base 125 Istres-Le Tube in France.
• The exercise includes advanced tactical drills aimed at enhancing interoperability and operational cooperation between the Indian and French navies.
• The Indian Navy’s INS Tabar is also participating, highlighting the deepening strategic partnership between India and France.
• This deployment comes 63 years after the Indian Naval Alizé aircraft last flew from Hyères Airbase.

Question:

1 What is the name of the Indo-French bilateral naval exercise conducted in the Mediterranean Sea in September 2024?

• A) Varuna
• B) Malabar
• C) Garuda
• D) Sahyog-Kaijin

Answer: A) Exercise Varuna is the annual bilateral naval exercise between India and France, and the 22nd edition is taking place in the Mediterranean Sea in 2024.