Visakhapatnam to Host International Fleet Review and Naval Parade on February 19
February 6, 2026
Visakhapatnam is set to host the International Fleet Review (IFR) on February 19, bringing global naval attention to India's east coast. From February 15 to 25, the city will witness a rare convergence of three major maritime events: IFR, Exercise MILAN, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Conclave of Chiefs. Ships from 19 countries and about 4,000 delegates will participate. The President of India, as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will review the fleet at sea.
India has hosted the IFR twice before — in Mumbai (2001) and Visakhapatnam (2016). This 2026 edition returns to Visakhapatnam with fleets showcasing Indian-built vessels like the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, Visakhapatnam class destroyers, Nilgiri class stealth frigates, and Arnala class anti-submarine corvettes.
On February 19, the city will come alive with the International City Parade from 4 pm to 7 pm. The parade will begin with an air power show by Indian naval aircraft and helicopters. Marching bands and troops from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and foreign naval detachments will join the event. Youth groups like the National Cadet Corps, Sea Cadet Corps, and Navy Children School students will also take part. Cultural performances celebrating regional maritime heritage will add color to the procession.
The celebrations will end with ships anchored along the coast lit up in formation, followed by fireworks, laser displays, and drone shows. This event offers a unique chance for Visakhapatnam’s people to connect with the armed forces and visiting navies.
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Tags:
International Fleet Review
Visakhapatnam
Indian navy
Naval Diplomacy
Military parade
Ins vikrant
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