President Droupadi Murmu Oversees International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam
The Indian Navy successfully hosted the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 off the coast of Visakhapatnam on 18 February 2026. This prestigious maritime event saw participation from 74 countries, underscoring global naval cooperation and India's expanding maritime capabilities. IFR 2026 marks the third such event hosted by India, following previous iterations in Mumbai in 2001 and Visakhapatnam in 2016.
The event was reviewed by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. She conducted the review from INS Sumedha, an indigenously constructed Offshore Patrol Vessel which served as the Presidential Yacht for the occasion. INS Sumedha was adorned with the Ashoka Emblem and flew the President’s Standard. The event began with a Ceremonial Guard of Honour and a 21-Gun Salute, after which the President sailed past the impressive lineup of anchored warships.
A total of 85 ships took part in the review, comprising 19 foreign warships. The Indian contingent included 60 ships from the Indian Navy, four Indian Coast Guard vessels, and one ship each from the Shipping Corporation of India and the National Institute of Ocean Technology. The event also saw the participation of three Indian Navy submarines, a French Atlantique maritime patrol aircraft, and over 60 aircraft, highlighting a comprehensive multi-domain maritime capability.
The review featured an impressive fly-past by the Indian Naval Air Arm, followed by a procession of warships and submarines moving past the Presidential Yacht. Other highlights included a Parade of Sails, Search and Rescue demonstrations, and aerial maneuvers by Hawk aircraft, all demonstrating effective operational coordination at sea.
In her address, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted India’s inclusive maritime vision, stating that the gathering of friendly nations exemplified the ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—the world is one family. She underscored India’s MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and noted that the theme “United Through Oceans” sent a strong message of collective security and cooperation to the global community.
The International Fleet Review 2026 was broadcast live on Doordarshan and streamed on the Indian Navy’s official digital platforms, allowing a global audience to witness the event. IFR 2026 emphasized India’s dedication to maritime partnership, interoperability, and collective security, while showcasing the indigenous capabilities and professionalism of the Indian Navy along with its enduring global partnerships.
