Unmatched power, unwavering resolve: India’s naval might on full display at IFR-2026

Visakhapatnam: The might of Indian Navy, alongside navies from across the world, was on full display at the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, which was reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday. Poised to be the largest IFR ever conducted by Indian Navy, the event underscores India's commitment to global maritime collaboration under the theme ‘United Through Oceans'.Sailing aboard Presidential yacht INS Sumedha, President Murmu — accompanied by Andhra Pradesh governor S Abdul Nazeer, chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Naval chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and other dignitaries — reviewed six columns of 71 frontline ships and submarines, including 19 from foreign navies.
This was the 13th fleet review since Independence and the third international edition hosted by India, following Mumbai (2001) and Visakhapatnam (2016). The 2026 edition, returning to Vizag after a decade, marks a significant milestone in India's naval journey. Ships dressed in full regalia saluted the President before streaming past the yacht in a ceremonial parade. Among them were indigenously-built vessels, including aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and submarines that played pivotal roles in operations. Warships such as INS Chennai, INS Visakhapatnam, INS Mysore, INS Mumbai, INS Rana, INS Ranvir, and INS Ranvijay showcased India's maritime might.In her address, President Murmu said the IFR reflects unity, trust, and respect among nations for maritime traditions. She emphasised India's vision of MAHASAGAR — which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — and highlighted the Navy's role as a first responder in humanitarian crises, a promoter of goodwill, and a guardian of maritime commerce."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. Units of Indian Navy deployed in the region serve as credible instruments of deterrence and defence against threats and challenges arising in the seas. 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," she said.Lauding the officers and sailors from friendly foreign navies, she said they represent the best traditions of their services and their 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 added, while expressing confidence that all the navies represented in the IFR will "collectively help the oceans thrive as gateways for growth, prosperity and overall well-being of the global community".