The International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, scheduled in February 2026 in Visakhapatnam, is one of the most significant maritime events India has hosted in recent years. The Indian Navy has organised the event on behalf of the President of India, bringing together naval forces from across the world to celebrate cooperation, showcase naval capabilities, and strengthen maritime partnerships. For India, IFR-2026 represents not only a ceremonial display of naval strength but also a major platform for diplomacy, strategic engagement, and technological exchange among maritime nations.
Overview
IFR-2026 started in Visakhapatnam on 15 February 2026 and will continue until 25 February 2026, with the main fleet review ceremony and related activities taking place between 16 and 20 February 2026. The event returns to Visakhapatnam after a decade, following the last edition held there in 2016. It is only the third International Fleet Review hosted by India, the earlier ones being in Mumbai in 2001 and Visakhapatnam in 2016.
The theme of this edition is “United Through Oceans,” emphasising collaboration among navies to maintain secure sea lanes, protect global trade routes, and address common maritime challenges.
IFR-2026 is particularly notable because it is being conducted alongside two other major events, including Exercise MILAN 2026 and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs. It is the first time India has brought together these major naval gatherings at a single venue.
Participation and Scale
The 2026 IFR is one of the largest maritime assemblies hosted by India since its independence. Dozens of countries are participating, with more than 60 warships and naval aircraft from around 70 nations expected to be present.
On the international landscape, participants include major powers such as the United States,
Russia, Japan, Australia, and several Indo-Pacific nations, along with smaller maritime states.Apart from the ships and submarines, delegations of naval chiefs, senior officers, and technical experts are attending discussions and seminars.
The Indian Navy is showcasing a significant portion of its fleet, including destroyers, frigates, submarines, and aircraft. A major highlight is the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, commissioned in 2022, which symbolises India’s growing shipbuilding capability and maritime power.
Key Events and Activities
The International Fleet Review includes both ceremonial and operational components. The central ceremony, the Presidential Fleet Review, takes place when the President of India inspects the assembled fleet from a naval vessel. This year, the President is expected to review the fleet from INS Sumedha, with dozens of ships arranged in formation off the coast of Visakhapatnam.
The other major events include:
Presidential Banquet: A formal gathering of international naval leaders and dignitaries. Naval Flypast and Demonstrations: Aircraft displays, marine commando operations, and maritime capability demonstrations.
International Maritime Seminar: Discussions on maritime security, technology, and cooperation among naval experts.
Subject Matter Expert Exchanges: Professional exchanges among officers to share operational insights and best practices.
International City Parade: A public event featuring marching contingents, naval bands, cultural displays, and aerial demonstrations.
These activities provide opportunities for both military and civilian audiences to witness naval operations and learn about maritime security.
Significance of IFR
The International Fleet Review serves as a powerful instrument of naval diplomacy. By inviting multiple nations to participate, India demonstrates its commitment to a rules-based maritime order and cooperative security in the Indo-Pacific region.
The event allows participating navies to conduct joint exercises, share information, and improve interoperability. According to naval officials, no single navy can ensure maritime security alone, making collaboration essential to tackle piracy, terrorism, cyber threats, and environmental challenges at sea.IFR-2026 also highlights India’s strategic role in the Indo-Pacific. With the region witnessing increased maritime activity and geopolitical competition, the review underscores India’s position as a key maritime partner and a responsible security provider.
Exhibiting India’s Indigenous Capabilities
A major focus of IFR-2026 is the display of India’s indigenous defence manufacturing and technological advancements. Warships built in Indian shipyards, including INS Vikrant and modern destroyers and frigates, demonstrate the country’s progress toward self-reliance in defence production.
The review also provides a platform to showcase emerging technologies, such as drones, autonomous systems, and advanced maritime surveillance tools. Discussions and demonstrations highlight the growing importance of technology in naval operations and maritime domain awareness.
IFR – A Boon for Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, often called the City of Destiny, will experience significant economic and social impacts from hosting IFR-2026. Infrastructure upgrades, beautification projects, and tourism development were undertaken to prepare for the event. The city has invested in road improvements, lighting, sanitation, and public spaces to ensure it can host international guests and large crowds.
Delegates and visitors are also being taken to local tourist attractions and maritime museums, promoting the region’s heritage and boosting tourism. The event places Visakhapatnam on the global maritime map and strengthens its reputation as a major naval hub on India’s eastern coast.
Beyond military and diplomatic aspects, the International Fleet Review also fosters cultural exchange among participating nations. Cultural programs, sports events, and community interactions are organised to promote goodwill and mutual understanding.
For the public, IFR-2026 offers a rare opportunity to witness international naval ships, aircraft, and demonstrations. Events such as parades, exhibitions, and fireworks create a festive atmosphere and allow citizens to connect with the armed forces.Summary
International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam is a landmark maritime event that combines ceremony, strategy, and cooperation. It highlights India’s naval capabilities, strengthens international partnerships, and promotes a shared vision of secure and open seas.
By bringing together dozens of navies and hundreds of delegates, the event demonstrates the importance of collaboration in addressing modern maritime challenges. At the same time, it showcases India’s growing role as a maritime power and a key player in Indo-Pacific security.
As the fleet assembles off the coast of Visakhapatnam and the President reviews the ships in formation, IFR-2026 stands as a symbol of unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility for the world’s oceans. It reinforces the idea that maritime security is a collective effort, and partnerships across oceans are essential for global stability and prosperity.
Article by Gayatri Sarin