Visakhapatnam: India’s indigenous naval prowess are at full display reiterating the solid message of shared commitment for collective maritime security and the incredible vision of the country towards defence indigenisation and self-reliance. The message echoes from the maritime corridors of Visakhapatnam where New Delhi is currently hosting the International Fleet Review(IFR) 2026, on the sidelines of Exercise MILAN, world’s largest multilateral naval manoeuvring.
A remarkable number of 70 countries are participating in Exercise MILAN and the International Fleet Review(IFR), 2026. The number mirrors the stellar scale and intensity of the exercise and the fleet review process, which is hosted by India. Most importantly, the vast number of participating countries reflect the role of India as a credible and trusted maritime partner in the path of seeking maritime security. It also underlines the importance asserted by India to carve a solid maritime trajectory to consolidate sound maritime diplomacy and collective security for global good.
President Murmu reviews the indigenous and foreign fleet
On February 18, President Droupadi Murmu who is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces visited Visakhapatnam and took a keen look at the stellar fleets that are on display which indeed reflected the message of shared commitment to carve a free, open, inclusive and secure maritime domain for the benefit of all the nations. During the visit, President Droupadi Murmu embarked on INS Sumedhaa, the indigenously built Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel, which is designated exclusively as the Presidential Yacht, a vessel of the Indian Navy specifically designated for the official and personal use of the country’s President.
The President on the INS Sumedha, as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, led the Presidential Column, a stellar and impressive line up of the anchored warships at the Review Anchorage Area. This included 50 Indian Naval ships and 19 vessels along with 18 vessels from friendly foreign nations. The Review by the President also included a spectacle of-
- Mobile Warships: they are versatile and rapidly deployable combat platforms that have high mobility, advanced surveillance systems and multi-dimensional warfare potential
- Submarine Columns: Organised and strategic grouping of submarines that are deployed for specific operation or exhibited during fleet review to showcase the maritime strength of the country
- Flypast of the naval aircraft: Aerial display of the naval aircraft with synchronized formations to display maritime prowess and defensive capabilities to articulate national security
During the International Fleet Review(IFR), President Murmu asserted, “The International Fleet Review is a reflection of unity, trust and respect among nations for maritime traditions. Ships flying different flags and sailors from across the globe demonstrate the spirit of togetherness. With the theme United Through Oceans, it sends a positive message to the world that our collective naval strength’s commitment and resolve can rise to any challenge”. President Murmu also hailed the commitment and incredible capabilities of the Indian Navy in terms of protecting national security at critical combat scenarios.
She reiterated the Indian Navy’s role as a ‘first responder’ during moments of crisis in any neighbouring region or at the larger Indian Ocean Region(IOR) and beyond. The president also reflected upon the humanitarian deeds of the Indian Navy during natural disasters and other catastrophes in the region. “The Indian Navy is often the first to respond during humanitarian crises and natural disasters, providing aid swiftly with compassion and competence”, President Murmu further added. She also hailed the unwavering commitment, dedication and competence of the naval forces that forms the bedrock of collective maritime security.
The International Fleet Review(IFR) also included a parade of sailing naval vessels, helicopter search and rescue demonstrations and combat displays of the maritime commandos. International Fleet Review(IRF) is a global forum hosted by maritime nations and naval powers around the world. It aims to parade and display the warships and submarines with the goal of strengthening maritime cooperation and calibrating maritime diplomacy to fortify collective security across the global maritime corridors.
Indigenous naval prowess to navigate maritime challenges
At the International Fleet Review(IFR), 2026, the indigenous naval prowess of India were at full display demonstrating the stellar indigenous defence capabilities of India. This included the display of INS Vikrant that echoed the message of soaring home-grown naval capabilities and sound maritime prowess of India. Other indigenous warships that were displayed also included INS Chennai, INS Visakhapatnam, INS Sumedha, INS Mumbai, INS Tamal and other vessels from the Visakhapatnam class, Kolkata class and the Shiwalik class frigates or warships. On display were also other submarines, patrolling vessels and naval aircrafts ascertaining the growing scale of Make in India resolve to seek self-reliance in the defence domain.
During the International Fleet Review and in the Exercise MILAN, off the coast of Visakhapatnam in Bay of Bengal, the participating friendly foreign naval powers included Seychelles, Indonesia, Maldives, Thailand, Oman, Iran, South Korea, Australia, Japan, Philippines, UAE, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, South Africa etc. that sums up to more than 70 nations. This indeed reflects the credibility and trust held by nations on India as a significant strategic maritime partner to navigate the challenges emanating across the maritime corridors and to articulate a collective maritime security architecture.
