The Indian Navy is gearing up for a grand celebration—the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 in Visakhapatnam this February! This event comes at a special time, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of India’s Republic. Commander Sreehari S from INS Agrani, Coimbatore, shared that India last hosted this big event in 2001 for the 50th anniversary. The theme this time is powerful: ‘United through Oceans’ and building ‘Bridges of Friendship.’ Why so much focus on the seas? Commander Sreehari explains that the ocean has become the heart of India’s foreign policy and security strategy. Problems like piracy, climate change, illegal fishing, and economic imbalances cross borders, so working together is the only way forward. India aims to be the lead architect in this maritime teamwork. The country has already gifted a corvette warship to Vietnam, fast interceptor boats to Mozambique, and set up a Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Sri Lanka. India’s reputation as a dependable partner shines especially in humanitarian help across the Indo-Pacific. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently addressed top UN military leaders saying, “India’s commitment to a rules-based international order remains strong, and we need fresh reforms in old global systems.” He called naval diplomacy “a vital component of India’s strategic toolbox.” The tricky India-China balance in the Indian Ocean, with lots of competition but no naval fights, shows the importance of smart sailing and talks. The Indian Navy is active in nearly 20 one-on-one war exercises like SIMBEX, Varuna, and CORPAT plus big group drills such as QUAD, MILAN, Malabar, and Konkan. India also started the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in 2008—a gathering that helps countries talk, plan, and secure the seas together. India’s maritime ambitions are growing. From SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), the vision expanded to MAHASAGAR, which means Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Region. This bigger idea includes not just the Indian Ocean but Africa, ASEAN, Latin America, and Pacific islands. Exercises like the INS Sunayna deployments and Africa–India AIKEYME reflect this bold plan. India’s maritime image is changing too. From being known as a ‘Net Security Provider,’ it is becoming a ‘Preferred Security Partner.’ The focus is on security teamwork, building capabilities, sharing economic benefits from the seas, fighting climate change, and supporting maritime rules. As 2047—India’s centenary of independence—comes closer, big events like IFR 2026, MILAN, IONS Chiefs Conclave, QUAD’s MAITRI workshops, and the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation are key steps to shape a safe, friendly, and linked Indo-Pacific region. This is the Indian Navy’s exciting, masaledar journey across the waves!