Navy – India Welcomes Foreign Warships for IFR 2026
Navy – India has begun receiving international naval contingents as preparations intensify for the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 and the multinational Exercise MILAN in Visakhapatnam.
The Indian Navy on Sunday confirmed the arrival of warships from Thailand, Australia and Sri Lanka, marking the early phase of what is expected to be one of the largest maritime gatherings hosted by the country.
Foreign Warships Reach Visakhapatnam
According to the Eastern Naval Command, Thailand’s offshore patrol vessel HTMS Krabi entered Visakhapatnam harbour to participate in both IFR 2026 and Exercise MILAN. Soon after, HMAS Warramunga, a frigate from the Royal Australian Navy, docked at the port city, underlining the growing maritime engagement between India and Australia.
Sri Lanka has also sent two of its vessels — SLNS Nandi Mitra and SLNS Sagara — to join the exercises. Officials said their presence reflects continued regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean region and longstanding naval ties between the neighbouring countries.
Scale of the International Fleet Review
The International Fleet Review is regarded as one of the most significant naval showcases in independent India. This year’s edition is expected to see participation from 71 ships, including 19 foreign warships, during the Milan exercise phase. In total, 65 nations are set to be represented at the event.
The fleet review itself will take place at sea on February 18 and will be reviewed by the President of India. The participating vessels will be arranged in six distinct formations. Apart from the 45 ships of the Indian Navy, the lineup will include platforms from the Indian Coast Guard, merchant fleet and research organisations.
MILAN Exercise Expands Its Global Reach
Launched in 1995 with only four participating countries, Exercise MILAN has grown steadily over the decades. The 2026 edition is expected to feature 65 navies, making it one of the largest gatherings since its inception.
The exercise aims to enhance operational coordination, maritime security cooperation and professional exchanges among participating forces. Naval officials say the expanding footprint of MILAN reflects India’s increasing engagement with maritime partners across regions.
Cultural and Public Events Planned
Beyond the operational exercises, Visakhapatnam will host several public events linked to the fleet review. An International City Parade is scheduled along the city’s Beach Road on February 19. Organizers expect around 45 marching contingents to participate, along with seven to eight international naval bands performing during the ceremony.
India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, has already reached Visakhapatnam and will be among the key attractions during the fleet review. Its presence is expected to draw considerable attention from both visiting delegations and the public.
Strategic Significance and Maritime Vision
Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla has described the upcoming events as a major opportunity to deepen international naval cooperation while showcasing India’s maritime capabilities. Defence officials view the fleet review and MILAN exercise as platforms to strengthen interoperability and promote stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The 2026 edition carries added significance as India will simultaneously host three major maritime engagements from February 15 to 25: the International Fleet Review, Exercise MILAN, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Conclave of Chiefs. This marks the first time the country is organising all three events within the same timeframe.
Officials have linked the initiative to the government’s broader maritime outlook, which emphasises regional security partnerships and self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The large-scale participation of foreign navies is being seen as an endorsement of India’s role as a key maritime partner in the region.
With ships continuing to arrive in Visakhapatnam, the eastern seaboard city is set to become the focal point of global naval diplomacy in February 2026