Historic Naval Convergence Announced for Visakhapatnam in 2026
Vice-Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, has declared that the year 2026 will witness an unprecedented convergence of three major naval events at Visakhapatnam. This historic gathering, comprising the International Fleet Review, Exercise MILAN-26, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Conclave of Chiefs, represents the largest such assembly in India's naval history.
Republic Day Celebrations and Strategic Announcements
During the 77th Republic Day celebrations at the naval base, Vice-Admiral Bhalla unfurled the national flag and reviewed a ceremonial parade featuring over 500 personnel from diverse units including ships, submarines, air squadrons, shore establishments, the Defence Security Corps, and the Sea Cadet Corps.
In his address, Bhalla emphasized that the Indian Navy symbolizes the nation's maritime strength and resilience. He highlighted the sustained high operational tempo maintained through numerous bilateral and multilateral exercises. The year 2025 saw Eastern Naval Command ships visiting 20 foreign ports, including significant stops at Suva in Fiji and Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea.
Operational Readiness and Security Enhancements
The Vice-Admiral detailed how combat readiness has been maintained through major exercises including TROPEX, AMPHEX, Jal Prahar, and Trishul-25. Coastal security has been significantly strengthened through operations such as Sea Vigil, Sagar Kavach, Op Sentinel, Op Prasthan, and Sajag.
Notable developments in 2025 included the induction of six state-of-the-art warships, which have substantially enhanced anti-submarine warfare and rescue capabilities. The commissioning of two additional vessels—the Taragiri, a Nilgiri-class frigate, and the Anjadip, an anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft—is expected to occur soon.
Strategic Importance and Future Preparedness
Bhalla stressed the critical importance of maritime strength amid increasing global strategic competition. He urged all naval personnel to maintain readiness for Phase-II of Operation Sindhu, underscoring the Navy's commitment to safeguarding national interests in the maritime domain.
Details of the 2026 Naval Events
The International Fleet Review scheduled for February 2026 will be a spectacular display featuring foreign naval ships, two aircraft carriers, and contingents from 20 countries. The President of India will review the fleet on February 18, marking a significant moment in India's naval diplomacy.
Exercise MILAN-26 will focus on enhancing interoperability among participating navies, while the International City Parade and maritime conclave will celebrate international camaraderie and deliberate on contemporary maritime issues under India's chairmanship.
This convergence of events at Visakhapatnam represents a landmark moment for India's naval diplomacy and operational showcase, positioning the country as a significant maritime power on the global stage.
