Visakhapatnam Set for International Fleet Review 2026 with 60+ Countries
Visakhapatnam to host IFR 2026 and MILAN naval exercises after a decade.
After nearly ten years, Visakhapatnam will host the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 along with the MILAN multinational naval exercises from February 15 to 20, marking the city’s second time organizing the prestigious event after 2016. The Eastern Naval Command (ENC) is preparing to showcase India’s maritime strength and foster international naval cooperation.
The fleet review will feature India’s aircraft carrier Vikrant, indigenously built warships from the Delhi, Rajput, Visakhapatnam, INS Nilgiri, Arnala, Shivalik, Brahmaputra, and Talwar classes, along with nuclear submarines and 23 warships from over 60 participating countries. Invitations were sent to more than 100 countries, excluding China and Pakistan, with 61 confirmations received so far.
Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla of ENC highlighted that IFR-2026 will offer a platform to display naval capabilities, technology, and operational readiness. A key feature will be the traditional guard of honour, naval parades along RK Beach, and cultural programs reflecting the heritage of participating nations, emphasizing the theme “United Through Oceans.”
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The International Fleet Review serves as a vital opportunity to strengthen bilateral and multilateral naval ties, discuss coastal security strategies, showcase new technologies, and explore collaboration in the blue economy. The event also demonstrates India’s growing capabilities in shipbuilding and maritime defence.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is expected to attend the main events on February 19, while the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, has been invited to review the fleet. The IFR will also feature live demonstrations of naval maneuvers, highlighting coordination among international fleets.
With this event, Visakhapatnam will once again become the epicenter of global maritime diplomacy, reaffirming India’s role as a strategic naval power in the Indo-Pacific region and enhancing cooperation among global navies.
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