French Naval Ship S Chevalier Paul departed Kochi harbour on 30th November after completing a twelve day long extensive engagement with the Indian Navy. As part of the interaction the ship undertook Port Calls at two Indian ports Mumbai and Kochi and undertook a Maritime Partnership Exercise with Indian Naval Ship Kolkata in the Arabian Sea from 22 to 23 November. The exercise also involved participation of a Maritime Patrol Aircraft and MiG 29K Fighter aircraft from the Indian side.
The exercise was aimed at enhancing interoperability, improving understanding and exchanging best practices between the two navies. Advanced coordinated ASW exercises, surface and anti-air exercises including weapon firings, seamanship exercises, naval manoeuvres and Cross Deck Flying Operations were undertaken during the exercise.
Navies of the two countries undertake Bilateral as well as Multilateral Maritime engagements on a regular basis. This year alone the two navies have undertaken five Maritime engagements including major exercises such as VARUNA – 21 and multilateral exercise La Perouse.
The recent interactions highlight the synergy, coordination and inter-operability between the two friendly navies. These interactions further underscore the shared values as partner navies, in ensuring freedom of seas and commitment to an open, inclusive Indo-Pacific and a rules-based international order.
