INS Vikrant to Take Center Stage at International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam
The indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, renowned for its pivotal role in "Operation Sindoor," is set to be the star attraction at the International Fleet Review (IFR-2026) and Exercise MILAN-2026. These major naval events will unfold in Visakhapatnam from February 15 to February 25, 2026, showcasing India's growing maritime prowess on the global stage.
Prime Minister Modi's Praise and Historical Significance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the carrier's strategic importance during a Diwali celebration aboard INS Vikrant off the coast of Goa and Karwa on October 20, 2025. In his address, he praised the vessel, noting that it has given sleepless nights to Pakistan, underscoring its deterrent capabilities.
Commissioned in 2022, INS Vikrant marked India's entry into an elite group of nations capable of designing and constructing their own aircraft carriers. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, this carrier is a testament to India's advancing naval strength and self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The name Vikrant, meaning "courageous," honors its legendary predecessor that played a crucial role in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. With dimensions spanning 262 meters in length, 62 meters in width, and standing 18 floors tall, INS Vikrant is a formidable presence. It houses a crew of 1,600, carries 250 tankers of fuel, and can host up to 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets and various helicopters.
Extensive Participation in IFR and MILAN 2026
INS Vikrant will be among approximately 60 ships and submarines from the Indian Navy participating in the IFR and MILAN exercises. Key Indian vessels include:
- INS Chennai
- INS Visakhapatnam
- INS Mysore
- INS Mumbai
- INS Rana
- INS Ranvir
- INS Ranvijay
- INS Tamal
- Submarines such as INS Sindhukesari, INS Shankul, and INS Sindhukerti
International participation adds a global dimension, with ships from friendly foreign navies arriving in Visakhapatnam over the past two days. Notable foreign vessels include:
- HMAS Warramunga from Australia
- JS Yuudachi from Japan
- RFS Marshal Shaposhnikov from Russia
- USS Pinckney from the USA
Additionally, the Indian Navy has welcomed patrol vessels and frigates from allied nations, such as CGS Huravee from the Maldives National Defence Force, SCGS Zoroaster (P609) from the Seychelles Coast Guard, VPNS 17 from the Vietnam People's Navy, and BRP Miguel Malvar from the Philippine Navy. These ships will participate in both IFR and MILAN, symbolizing continued maritime cooperation and strengthening diplomatic ties.
Event Schedule and Broader Engagements
The Indian Navy is hosting three international engagements simultaneously in Vizag city from February 15 to 25. The IFR and Exercise MILAN will be conducted alongside the IONS Conclave of Chiefs, which brings together naval leaders from several countries to discuss strategic maritime issues.
The IFR will formally commence with a Presidential Banquet on February 17, followed by the Presidential Fleet Review at sea on February 18. This review will feature a display of Indian naval capabilities, emphasizing indigenous platforms and technological advancements. Several warships and aircraft from foreign navies are scheduled to participate, enhancing the collaborative spirit of the events.
These exercises not only demonstrate India's naval readiness but also foster international partnerships, promoting peace and security in the maritime domain. The presence of INS Vikrant, as a symbol of indigenous innovation and courage, underscores India's commitment to a robust and self-sufficient defense ecosystem.
