Indian Navy’s P8i Poseidon aircraft makes historic first deployment in Europe for 'Exercise Varuna'
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For the first time, an Indian Navy P8i Poseidon aircraft has been deployed in Europe, landing at Air Base 125 Istres-Le Tube in France.
The aircraft is in France to participate in the joint Indo-French naval exercise 'Varuna', taking place from September 2 to September 4 in the Mediterranean Sea.
A senior navy official confirmed the deployment, highlighting that the P8i aircraft will join forces with the French Navy for the exercise. This year's 'Varuna' exercise is expected to include advanced tactical drills, emphasizing the increasing synergy and interoperability between the two navies.
The deployment of the P8i Poseidon marks a significant moment, as it is the first such mission in Europe since the Indian Navy’s Alize aircraft operated from the now-decommissioned INS Vikrant at Hyeres Airbase 63 years ago. Additionally, the Indian Navy's frigate, INS Tabar, which arrived earlier in Toulon, will also participate in the exercise.
The P-8 Poseidon is a maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft developed by Boeing Defense in the United States, based on the civilian Boeing 737-800 airliner. The P8i variant is specially designed for the Indian Navy and serves as a replacement for the aging Tupolev Tu-142M maritime surveillance aircraft.
Since its induction in 2013, the Indian Navy's fleet of 12 P8i Poseidon aircraft has accumulated over 35,000 flight hours. These aircraft are vital for coastal patrolling and are also deployed in critical missions, including maritime surveillance, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, search-and-rescue operations, anti-piracy efforts, and supporting other military operations.
The Varuna Naval Exercise is a bilateral maritime drill that has been a cornerstone of India-France strategic relations since its inception in 1993. Originally named in 2001, the exercise has grown in complexity and scope over the years, featuring guided missile frigates, tankers, maritime patrol aircraft, and integral helicopters from both navies.
The exercise offers an opportunity for both sides to learn from each other’s best practices and procedures, facilitating operational-level interactions and fostering mutual cooperation to ensure good order at sea. The Ministry of Defence emphasized that the exercise underscores the shared commitment of India and France to maintaining security, safety, and freedom in the global maritime commons.