Indian, French navies conclude exercise VARUNA-2021 April 28, 2021, by Naida Hakirevic The 19 th edition of the Indo-French naval exercise ‘VARUNA-2021’ concluded on 27 April 2021. The bilateral exercise has been a key enabler in building interoperability and strengthening the coordination between the two navies. Photo: Indian Navy According to the Indian Navy, VARUNA has matured over the years with increase in scope, complexity of operations and level of participation. Conducted from 25-27 Apr 2021 in the Arabian Sea, the naval drill witnessed high tempo-naval operations at sea, including advanced air defence and anti-submarine exercises, intense fixed and rotary wing flying operations including cross deck helicopter landings, tactical manoeuvres, surface and anti-air weapon firings, underway replenishment and other maritime security operations.