President Droupadi Murmu Reviews Spectacular International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam
The grandeur and power of the Indian Navy, alongside naval forces from numerous nations across the globe, were magnificently showcased at the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. President Droupadi Murmu served as the reviewing officer for this monumental event, which is poised to be the largest IFR ever organized by the Indian Navy. The impressive display powerfully underscores India's steadfast commitment to fostering global maritime collaboration, encapsulated by the unifying theme 'United Through Oceans'.
A Presidential Review of Naval Might
Sailing aboard the Presidential yacht INS Sumedha, President Murmu conducted a thorough review of six majestic columns comprising 71 frontline ships and submarines. She was accompanied by a distinguished delegation including Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Naval Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and other high-ranking dignitaries. Notably, the fleet included 19 vessels from friendly foreign navies, symbolizing international partnership and solidarity on the high seas.
This historic occasion marked the 13th fleet review since India's Independence and the third international edition hosted by the nation, following previous events in Mumbai (2001) and Visakhapatnam (2016). The 2026 edition's return to Vizag after a full decade represents a significant milestone in India's evolving naval journey and strategic maritime outreach.
Showcasing Indigenous Naval Power and Global Unity
The ceremonial parade was a breathtaking spectacle, with ships dressed in full regalia offering a formal salute to the President before streaming past the presidential yacht in precise formation. The fleet prominently featured indigenously-built vessels that are pillars of India's naval defense, including the formidable aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and advanced submarines that have played pivotal roles in critical operations.
Warships such as INS Chennai, INS Visakhapatnam, INS Mysore, INS Mumbai, INS Rana, INS Ranvir, and INS Ranvijay were among those that showcased the formidable maritime might and technological prowess of the Indian Navy. Their presence highlighted decades of domestic shipbuilding achievement and strategic capability development.
President Murmu's Vision for Maritime Cooperation
In her formal address to the assembled dignitaries and naval personnel, President Murmu emphasized that the International Fleet Review reflects profound unity, mutual trust, and deep respect among nations for shared maritime traditions. She articulated India's comprehensive maritime vision encapsulated in the acronym MAHASAGAR, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
The President highlighted the Indian Navy's multifaceted role as a first responder during humanitarian crises and natural disasters, a proactive promoter of international goodwill, and a steadfast guardian of vital global maritime commerce routes. "India believes that a sound maritime order is based on collective responsibility and cooperative action among like-minded partners. This fleet review takes forward India's vision of MAHASAGAR," President Murmu stated authoritatively.
She further elaborated, "Units of the Indian Navy deployed in the region serve as credible instruments of deterrence and defense against threats and challenges arising in the seas. The Indian Navy is often the first responder in times of humanitarian crises and natural disasters, extending quick assistance with compassion and competence. Our Navy also plays a vital role in promoting goodwill and building bridges of trust, confidence, and friendship with navies around the globe."
Commending International Naval Partnerships
President Murmu extended special praise and recognition to the officers and sailors from friendly foreign navies participating in the review. She commended them as representatives of the finest traditions of their respective services and nations. "Their discipline, dedication, and competence are the foundations upon which collective maritime security is built. Their presence in the fleet review has further strengthened our bonds of trust and reaffirmed our shared commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation at sea," she affirmed.
Concluding her address on an optimistic note, the President expressed strong confidence that all the navies represented at the International Fleet Review 2026 would "collectively help the oceans thrive as gateways for growth, prosperity and overall well-being of the global community." The event stands as a powerful testament to India's growing naval stature and its role as a responsible maritime power committed to collaborative security and sustainable ocean governance.
