INS Trishul arrived at Toulon, France, on September 22, 2026, to take part in the 24th edition of Exercise Varuna, an annual maritime exercise conducted between the Indian Navy and the French Navy. The ship was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute from the French Navy, marking the significance of this military collaboration.

The harbour phase of the exercise included a variety of professional, sporting, and cultural activities. These engagements are designed to strengthen the ties and professional relationships between the two naval forces, as noted by the Ministry of Defence. During this phase, the Commanding Officer of INS Trishul, along with other officers, visited RAdm Mackara Ouk, Deputy Commander-in-Chief for Operations (CECMED).

As part of the commemorative activities, the Commanding Officer, along with the crew, laid a wreath at the Mazargues War Memorial in Marseille. This memorial honours the sacrifice of 205 Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the World Wars, reflecting the respect shared between the two nations for their histories.

Engagements Strengthen Naval Cooperation

Professional engagements within the harbour phase encompassed cross-deck visits and an exchange of operational insights aimed at enhancing interoperability. These interactions were crucial in fostering a better understanding of each navy’s operational tactics and capabilities.

INS Trishul also presented a cultural interaction onboard, which was attended by VAdm (Retd) Laurent Isnard, Deputy Mayor of Toulon, alongside officers from the French Navy and other dignitaries. A friendly volleyball match was organised to enhance camaraderie among personnel from both navies, underlining the importance of interpersonal relationships in military cooperation.

The crew of INS Trishul also visited French Navy vessels, including Charles de Gaulle, Forbin, and La Fayette, offering them insights into carrier operations, aviation facilities, and the procedures employed on board these ships. These visits serve as an educational platform for personnel to learn from each other’s operational practices.

Maritime Exercises Enhance Operational Coordination

The Sea Phase of Exercise Varuna involved INS Trishul engaging alongside various French Navy units, such as FDA Forbin, FLF La Fayette, and SNA Suffren, as well as NH90 helicopters and Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft. This segment was focused on conducting anti-submarine, anti-surface, and live-firing exercises, aimed at improving operational coordination and enhancing the collective capabilities of both navies.

Cross-deck helicopter landing drills were included in the exercises to refine the technical skills of both Indian and French naval personnel in a practical setting. These exercises not only improved efficiency but also promoted mutual trust and collaboration between the forces.

The participation of INS Trishul in Toulon serves to reaffirm the enduring maritime partnership between India and France. Both navies displayed a commitment to enhancing their engagements and operational interoperability, paving the way for future collaborations and exchanges in maritime operations.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share