President Droupadi Murmu will review the 2026 International Fleet Review (IFR) off the coast of Visakhapatnam today. A correspondent for Akashvani reports that this will be one of the largest maritime gatherings in India. As the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the President is scheduled to inspect around 70 warships, submarines, and nearly 50 aircraft assembled at the Review Anchorage Area. Naval delegations from over 50 countries are participating, reflecting India's expanding maritime partnerships.
The President will board INS Sumedha, the designated Presidential Yacht. A highlight of the review will be India's first indigenously built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, along with other indigenous platforms including Visakhapatnam-class destroyers and Nilgiri-class stealth frigates, underscoring the Navy's "Builder's Navy" vision.
Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will accompany her. The Indian Navy conducted the final rehearsal for the International Fleet Review the previous day, ensuring full operational readiness for the ceremonial event.
The 2026 IFR coincides with Exercise MILAN and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Conclave, marking a major naval convergence. Held under the theme "United Through Oceans, Strengthening Bridges of Friendship", the event highlights maritime cooperation and security in the Indo-Pacific region.