In A First, Germany, Philippines And UAE To Join Indian Navy's Fleet Review In Visakhapatnam

Indian Navy’s International Fleet Review (IFR), which is set to commence from February 18 in Visakhapatnam, will feature first-time deployment of frontline assets by Germany, the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates lending additional weight to what is expected to be among the largest naval gatherings hosted by India. Germany is set to send a P-8 maritime patrol aircraft. The Philippines will field BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), while the UAE plans to deploy Al Emarat, an offshore patrol vessel.

Defence Officials indicate that more than 70 nations will be represented through ships, aircraft and delegations. The review will be conducted alongside MILAN, expanding the scope for professional exchanges, staff interactions and coordinated activity

at sea. Interestingly, participation is not limited to seafaring states. Landlocked nations such as Bhutan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan are also expected to be present through official delegations, underlining the diplomatic and cooperative character of the event. The event will have participation of more than 20 African countries.

As per the plan, IFR will begin with a harbour phase centred on bilateral meetings, ship visits and outreach programmes. This will lead into the ceremonial review before participating units head to sea for passage exercises designed to improve interoperability.

On the morning of February 18, President Droupadi Murmu will review the assembled fleet at the anchorage off Visakhapatnam. INS Sumedha will embark the President as the Presidential Yacht and lead the Presidential Column.

In addition to anchored formations of Indian and foreign warships, there will be steam pasts by mobile columns of ships and submarines and a flypast by naval aircraft. A parade of sailing vessels, search and rescue demonstrations by helicopters and Marine Commando displays are part of the programme.

The last edition of the fleet review, also hosted in Visakhapatnam in 2022, had participation of 50 countries. Officials say IFR 2026 will further reinforce India’s expanding maritime partnerships across regions.

For nearly three decades, the Indian Navy’s flagship events the International Fleet Review (IFR) has brought together maritime nations in a spirit of cooperation. Guided by the theme ‘United Through Oceans’ for IFR this edition will showcase professional exchanges, operational drills and cultural celebrations.