India, France Begin 19th Edition Of Annual Joint Naval Drill 'Varuna'

India and France on April 25 commenced their 19th annual ‘Varuna’ joint naval exercise in the Arabian Sea. Eyeing chinese presence in the Indian Ocean region, the French Navy has deployed its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier ‘Charles De Gaulle’ and entire carrier strike group. To reinforce the joint capability, Indian Navy deployed guided missile stealth destroyer Kolkata, Kalvari class submarine and P-8I maritime patrol aircrafts in the three-day wargame.