In a display of India’s rising naval dominance, President Droupadi Murmu lands in Visakhapatnam Tuesday for the much-anticipated International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026. This two-day extravaganza highlights the synergy between India’s armed forces and global partners, with the President, as Commander-in-Chief, at the helm.
The program launches with a high-profile Presidential Banquet, building excitement for Wednesday’s centerpiece: the presidential review of 70 warships, submarines, and aircraft from India and allied countries off the Visakhapatnam shore. It’s more than a parade—it’s a statement of maritime solidarity, interoperability, and India’s watchful eye over vital sea lanes.
Governor Justice S. Abdul Nazeer and CM N. Chandrababu Naidu will stand alongside President Murmu. The Navy points out that IFR embodies shared maritime heritage and defensive resolve. Echoing successes of 2001 in Mumbai and 2016 here, this edition promises even greater scale.
Stealing the spotlight is INS Vikrant, the pride of indigenous shipbuilding, whose exploits in Operation Sindoor remain legendary. As the mainstay of the carrier battle group, it dictated the Navy’s offensive strategy, compelling the enemy navy to retreat and seek truce. International delegates will marvel at its capabilities up close.
Complementing the IFR are vibrant city parades, cultural extravaganzas, and citizen-focused events honoring seafaring traditions worldwide. Parallel to this, MILAN 26—the 13th multilateral exercise under Eastern Naval Command—brings together 135+ nations in Bay of Bengal drills to build trust, exchange best practices, and simulate joint missions.
The Indian Ocean Naval Symposium rounds out the historic triple-hosting feat by India. Reflecting on history, the inaugural 2001 IFR saw President Narayanan from INS Sujata, while 2016’s mega-event with 50 nations and 100 ships featured President Mukherjee from INS Sumitra, with PM Modi and Manohar Parrikar, marking an unprecedented naval congregation.