International Fleet Review 2026: Global Naval Power on Display in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam has transformed into a hub of international naval cooperation as warships from diverse nations have converged at its port for the prestigious International Fleet Review (IFR-2026) and Multilateral Naval Exercise (MILAN-2026). These significant maritime events, organized under the Eastern Naval Command (ENC), are unfolding from February 15 to 25 across Visakhapatnam and the Bay of Bengal, showcasing naval traditions and strengthening global partnerships.
Massive Naval Assembly with Presidential Review
Vice-Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the ENC, revealed that an impressive fleet of 71 ships will participate in the International Fleet Review. This includes India's indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant alongside 19 foreign warships representing various naval powers. The grand naval parade will be reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu off the Visakhapatnam coast on February 18, marking a historic moment in India's maritime diplomacy.
International Participation and Notable Warships
The visiting fleet represents a remarkable array of naval capabilities from across the globe:
- Russia has deployed the upgraded Udaloy-class destroyer RFS Marshal Shaposhnikov, measuring 163 meters with a speed of 35 knots and serving in the Russian Pacific Fleet.
- Australia contributes the Anzac-class frigate HMAS Warramunga, commissioned in 2001 with extensive operational experience in the Persian Gulf and anti-piracy missions off Somalia.
- Japan sends the Murasame-class destroyer JS Yuudachi, featuring the distinctive "Oranda-zaka" long forecastle design from Japan's First Defence build-up plan.
- Iran participates with the Moudge-class destroyer IRINS Dena, named after Mount Dena and serving in the Iranian Navy's Southern Fleet.
INS Vikrant: The Star Attraction
India's indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant stands as the centerpiece of both IFR and MILAN 2026 events. The carrier, which famously led the Carrier Battle Group during Operation Sindoor and compelled Pakistani warships to remain in harbor, will showcase India's growing naval prowess. INS Vikrant will be accompanied by its MiG-29K fighter jets, while other frontline Indian platforms including Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class stealth frigates, and Arnala-class anti-submarine corvettes will demonstrate comprehensive naval capabilities.
Exercise MILAN: Comprehensive Naval Operations
The Multilateral Naval Exercise MILAN-2026 complements the fleet review with operational training components. Beyond the surface vessels, the exercise will feature the P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, enhancing anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance capabilities. This comprehensive approach ensures participating navies can practice interoperability across multiple domains of naval warfare.
US Participation and Diplomatic Significance
While the USS Pinckney was initially scheduled to participate but withdrew due to emergent operational requirements, other United States participation in the events remains unchanged. A spokesperson for the US consulate emphasized, "The United States values our continuing partnership with India and looks forward to a successful event," highlighting the diplomatic importance of these naval gatherings.
Technical Specifications of Key Warships
The visiting warships represent cutting-edge naval technology:
- RFS Marshal Shaposhnikov (Russia): Length 163m, beam 19.3m, draught 7.8m, speed 35 knots, range 10,500 nautical miles at 14 knots.
- HMAS Warramunga (Australia): Length 118m, beam 15m, draught 4m, speed 27 knots, range 6,000 nautical miles at 18 knots, complement of 170 sailors.
- JS Yuudachi (Japan): Length 151m, beam 17.4m, draft 5.2m, speed 30 knots, complement of 165 personnel.
- IRINS Dena (Iran): Displacement 1,500 tonnes, length 95m, beam 11.1m, draught 3.25m, speed 30 knots, complement of 140 sailors.
The Eastern Naval Command has welcomed all visiting ships with traditional naval ceremonies, reinforcing the time-honored customs of maritime hospitality. As warships from different shipyards under various flags gather in Visakhapatnam, the International Fleet Review 2026 and MILAN exercise demonstrate India's growing role as a facilitator of global naval cooperation and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
