Warships from India and allied nations sailed in formation off Visakhapatnam on Wednesday as President Droupadi Murmu reviewed the International Fleet Review 2026, highlighting naval strength and international cooperation.
The International Fleet Review, hosted by the Indian Navy began on February 18 and continues with Exercise Milan 2026 in the Bay of Bengal, featuring anti-submarine, air defence and search-and-rescue drills.
The sea phase is led by the carrier INS Vikrant on its first international deployment.
The review began with the President inspecting Columns 1 and 2, consisting of anchored vessels from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and friendly foreign navies, including ships from Sri Lanka, Oman, Indonesia, and Iran.
Columns 3 and 4 featured the Parade of Sails, with vessels from India and allied nations steaming past the Presidential Yacht in ceremonial salute.
Participating countries included Australia, Japan, South Korea, Myanmar, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Russia, UAE and Germany.
Focus has shifted to attendance among the 135 invited nations. India has deployed 45 ships for the review. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan confirmed participation from 55 countries, with some represented by personnel and others by aircraft. As of February 18, warships from 17 nations were in harbour. Germany is taking part with a Boeing P-8A Poseidon.
