Paris:

The Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tabar, under the command of Captain MR Harish, and the Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance (LRMR) P8I aircraft have made a notable impact in the 22nd edition of the India-France bilateral naval exercise Varuna.

This significant maritime exercise took place from September 2 to 4, 2024 in the Mediterranean Sea, following a port visit by INS Tabar to Toulon, France, from August 29 to September 1, 2024, as per an official press release by the Indian Navy.

Since its inception in 2001, the Varuna exercise has become a cornerstone of the defence relationship between India and France. This year’s edition featured an array of sophisticated naval operations designed to enhance interoperability and tactical skills between the two navies.

The Indian contingent included INS Tabar and the P8I aircraft, while the French Navy contributed with the frigate FS Provence, the nuclear-powered submarine Suffren, Atlantique 2 aircraft, MB339 fighter jets, and helicopters, including the NH90 and Dauphin, the press release stated.

Throughout the exercise, participants engaged in a variety of complex operations. These included advanced anti-submarine warfare drills, rigorous air defence exercises, and live weapon firings.

The exercise also incorporated a FLYEX (fly exercise) and a steam past event, which demonstrated the effective integration of assets across air, surface, and sub-surface domains.

These operations not only tested but also showcased the tactical capabilities and coordination between the Indian and French naval forces.

The successful execution of Varuna in the Mediterranean Sea underscores India’s expanding naval reach and its capacity for sustained operations beyond the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

By conducting the exercise in this distant theatre, the Indian Navy has highlighted its growing global maritime presence and operational versatility, the press release reported.

This edition of Varuna reinforces the strong strategic partnership between India and France, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing maritime security and fostering deeper operational collaboration.

The completion of this year’s Varuna exercise further solidifies the robust defence ties between the two nations and emphasises their mutual dedication to advancing best practices and strategic cooperation in maritime defence.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

London:

The iconic Tower Bridge in London on Wednesday became a site of celebration as members of the Indian community gathered to welcome Indian Navy’s frontline frigate, Indian Naval Ship Tabar to the city.

The picturesque event saw the historic bridge serve as a backdrop to the cultural unity and vibrant spirit of the Indian community in the UK, with several people chanting “Bharat Mata ki Jai”.

Historic milestone!

Welcome INS TABAR to the Thames waters in London!

Witnessing the Tower Bridge open for this proud occasion fills our hearts with immense joy and pride.

This is a historic day for India and the United Kingdom.

Bharat Mata ki Jai! #INSTABAR… pic.twitter.com/uLO0O0S1MQ

— British Indians Voice (@BritIndianVoice) August 7, 2024

The INS Tabar’s arrival was met with enthusiastic cheers and a sense of pride among the attendees. The moment was a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of India merging seamlessly with the historic landmarks of London.

A member of the Indian community said, “It is a proudest moment for all the Indians living here. Everyone cheered after seeing the Indian flag and the Indian ship. It was a precious moment for all of us.”

“INS Tabar, a Talwar-Class Frigate of @indiannavy is visiting London from August 7th to 11th. The ship will be berthing alongside HMS Belfast. Do try to catch a glimpse of this magnificent vessel!” the High Commisison of India in London posted on X attaching a picture of the vesssel with ‘Namaste London’ caption.

Welcome to London #INSTabar.

#INSTabar passing under the iconic #TowerBridge. @indiannavy@VDoraiswami@sujitjoyghosh@MEAIndia@IndianDiplomacy@DDNewslive@PIB_Indiahttps://t.co/TNNyzppo94pic.twitter.com/J1v9pZ9JUL

— India in the UK (@HCI_London) August 7, 2024

The event highlighted the strength and solidarity of the Indian community in London, showcasing their collective support for initiatives that bridge cultural gaps and promote mutual understanding.

Another member of the Indian community said, “We are feeling very proud and happy to see an Indian warship entering here and the iconic Tower Bridge opening for it.”

The celebration was not just a welcome for the INS Tabar, but also a testament to the thriving presence and influence of the Indian community in the UK.

The event at Tower Bridge will be remembered as a symbol of cultural exchange, community spirit, and the enduring ties between India and the UK.

INS Tabar during the return leg from St Petersburg, Russia conducted a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) with the German Navy off Kiel Canal on August 5, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

INS Tabar had earlier visited Hamburg, Germany from July 17-20.

“The conduct of MPX between Indian Navy and German Navy off Kiel Canal signifies Indian Navy’s outreach and sustenance efforts also marking a significant milestone in the maritime cooperation between the two countries,” the release stated.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)