During his visit onboard INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a strong message to Pakistan. He highlighted the unmatched strength of the Indian Navy and stated that had it participated in combat during Operation Sindoor, the outcome for Pakistan would have been far more devastating. Drawing parallels with the 1971 war, Singh noted that the Navy’s involvement at the time led to Pakistan being split into two parts. "If the Navy had acted in Operation Sindoor, Pakistan might have been divided into four parts," he asserted. His remarks underscored India’s maritime strength and strategic military readiness.

On January 4, 2025, the French Navy`s nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, FNS Charles de Gaulle, arrived at Mormugao Port in Goa as part of its Mission CLEMENCEAU 25. The carrier is carrying the Rafale Marine, the naval version of the Rafale fighter jet. During its stop in Goa and Kochi, the French Rafale Marine jets will join the Indian Air Force’s Rafale jets for joint war games. India is also working to finalize a deal for 26 Rafale M jets for its INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. The stopover includes the 42nd Varuna exercise, a bilateral naval and air training between India and France, aimed at improving cooperation and readiness to handle various threats.