Indian Naval Ship Trishul arrived at Toulon, France on September 22, 2026, to participate in the 24th edition of Exercise Varuna, the annual bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and French Navy. The ship received a ceremonial water cannon salute upon arrival.
During the harbour phase, the exercise included professional, sporting, and cultural engagements aimed at strengthening maritime ties. The Commanding Officer of INS Trishul called on RAdm Mackara Ouk, Deputy Commander-in-Chief for Operations (CECMED), and interacted with senior French Navy leadership. Personnel from both navies paid respects at the Mazargues War Memorial in Marseille, honoring 205 Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the World Wars.
Professional exchanges included cross-deck visits and operational experience sharing to enhance interoperability. INS Trishul hosted a cultural interaction attended by VAdm (Retd) Laurent Isnard, Deputy Mayor of Toulon, French Navy officers, and civil dignitaries. A friendly volleyball match further fostered camaraderie between personnel. The Indian crew visited French Navy ships Charles de Gaulle, Forbin, and La Fayette, gaining insights into carrier operations and aviation facilities.
The sea phase involved INS Trishul exercising alongside French Navy units including FDA Forbin, FLF La Fayette, and SNA Suffren, supported by NH90 helicopters and Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft. The exercises included anti-submarine operations, anti-surface drills, live-firing exercises, and cross-deck helicopter landing serials, all contributing to enhanced operational coordination and synergy between the two navies.
The visit reaffirmed the strong maritime partnership between India and France and demonstrated both navies' commitment to strengthening maritime engagement and professional exchanges.
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