Why in News?
India hosted the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 at Visakhapatnam, alongside Exercise MILAN and the IONS Conclave.
Description:
What is an International Fleet Review (IFR)?
An IFR is a ceremonial congregation of naval ships, submarines and aircraft from multiple countries, formally reviewed by a Head of State or Sovereign. In India, it is hosted by the Indian Navy on behalf of the President of India.
International Fleet Review 2026 – Visakhapatnam:
- Dates: 15–25 February 2026
- Theme: United Through Oceans
- Host: Indian Navy
- Venue: Visakhapatnam (Eastern Naval Command)
Participation:
- 70+ nations with delegations. Around 85 ships, including foreign warships.
| Exercise / Platform | Participants | Nature |
| Malabar | Quad (India, US, Japan, Australia) | High-end warfare; anti-submarine drills. |
| MILAN | Multilateral (hosted by India) | Maritime cooperation, confidence-building & interoperability |
| RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific) | Global (US-led) | World’s largest international maritime exercise |
Purpose:
- Showcase naval capabilities.
- Promote maritime diplomacy and goodwill.
- Enhance interoperability among friendly navies.
- Reinforce the idea of a Free, Open and Inclusive Indo-Pacific.
History of IFR in India:
India has conducted multiple fleet reviews since Independence. International editions:
- 2001 – Mumbai (First IFR; theme: Bridges of Friendship)
- 2016 – Visakhapatnam (Second IFR; theme: United Through Oceans)
- 2026 – Visakhapatnam (Third IFR; largest maritime assembly hosted by India)
Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):
- Event: 9th IONS Conclave of Chiefs held on 20 February 2026 at Visakhapatnam, India
- Chairmanship (2026–2028): Indian Navy (Previous: Thailand)
- India previously served as inaugural Chair: 2008
- IONS is established by the Indian Navy in 2008, the IONS is a voluntary maritime security forum, organized into sub-regional groupings, aimed at fostering cooperation, confidence-building, and capacity enhancement among the navies of Indian Ocean littoral states.
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