Why in News?
The Ministry of Defence announced that Visakhapatnam will host a combined International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN 2026 and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave from 15 to 25 February 2026. This will be the first time India organises these three major naval events together. The decision aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision, which emphasises mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions.
Background
MILAN is a biennial multinational naval exercise that began in 1995 at Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands with just four participating countries. Over the years it has evolved into a premier event promoting maritime cooperation, professional interaction and cultural exchanges among friendly navies. The International Fleet Review is a ceremonial assembly of warships where the host nation’s head of state reviews the fleet; India last hosted a Presidential Fleet Review off Visakhapatnam in 2016. The Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, launched in 2008, is a forum for chiefs of navies from littoral states to discuss maritime security. Combining these events underscores India’s growing maritime stature and its commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo‑Pacific.
What to expect in 2026
- Sea and harbour phases: Participating navies will engage in complex exercises including anti‑submarine warfare, air‑defence drills, surface target firing, search‑and‑rescue operations and maritime interdiction. Harbour activities will include professional exchanges, planning conferences and cultural events.
- Presidential Fleet Review: The President of India will review a line‑up of Indian Naval ships and submarines, showcasing platforms such as the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, destroyers, frigates and patrol vessels. This ceremonial inspection demonstrates the operational readiness of the fleet.
- IONS Conclave: Naval chiefs from Indian Ocean Region countries will discuss collaborative security initiatives, information sharing and capacity‑building. Topics may include maritime domain awareness, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
- Showcasing indigenous capability: Indigenous construction programmes like the Vikrant‑class carriers, P‑17A frigates and Kalvari‑class submarines will be highlighted, underscoring India’s self‑reliance in defence manufacturing.
Significance
- Strengthening partnerships: The events will bring together navies from around the world, deepening bilateral and multilateral ties and enhancing interoperability.
- Operational preparedness: Large‑scale exercises provide practical experience in coordinating complex operations across different platforms and national doctrines.
- Strategic messaging: Hosting the IFR, MILAN and IONS together signals India’s intent to play a leadership role in ensuring safe and secure sea lanes while promoting a rules‑based order in the Indo‑Pacific.
Sources: Press Information Bureau