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Navy P8I aircraft lands in France, marking first European deployment
The deployment comes 63 years after the Alizer aircraft operating from the former Vikrant last flew at Hyères Air Force Base in France
The Indian Navy's P-8I aircraft was deployed in Europe for the first time, landing in France to participate in the “Varuna” bilateral exercise with the French Navy. This is 63 years after the Alizer aircraft operating from the former Vikrant last flew at Hyères Air Force Base.
According to an official statement from the Indian Navy, the P-8I aircraft landed at No. 125 Air Force Base in Istres-le-Toubet, France, marking its first deployment in Europe. It is said that the aircraft will become part of the French Navy's “Varuna Exercise”.
The INS Tabar, which arrived in Toulon earlier, will also participate in bilateral military exercises. The navy said that the 2024 bilateral naval exercise “Varuna” between the two countries is scheduled to be held in the Mediterranean Sea from September 2 to 4. These will include advanced tactical exercises that emphasize the deepening synergy and interoperability between the two navies, the report said.
“India-France cooperation takes off! The Indian Navy's P-8I aircraft landed at No. 125 Istrel-Tube Air Force Base. This is its first deployment in Europe to participate in the 22nd Varuna exercise with the French Navy. This The deployment comes 63 years after the Indian Navy Alizer aircraft operating from INS Vikrant last flew at Hyère Air Force Base. This advanced tactical exercise underscores the deepening synergy and mutual respect between our navies, “The Navy posted on the social media platform X.
The bilateral exercise between the two navies began in 1993 and was named Exercise Varuna in 2001. It has become a symbol of the bilateral strategic relationship between India and France. Over the years, military exercises have grown in scope and complexity, while providing opportunities to exchange and learn from best practices from both countries.
