President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, today reviewed the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 off the coast of Visakhapatnam, underscoring India’s growing maritime capability and its commitment to global naval cooperation.
Embarking on INS Sumedha, the Presidential Yacht, she inspected a formidable assembly of 71 Indian and foreign vessels anchored along the coastline. The fleet comprised 45 Indian Navy ships, 19 visiting warships and other vessels representing the Coast Guard, Merchant Navy and research organisations, reflecting the scale and diversity of maritime participation. The review unfolded with a ceremonial steam past by warships and submarines, precision flypasts by naval aircraft, sailing vessel parades, helicopter-led search-and-rescue demonstrations and high-intensity combat drills by Marine Commandos, presenting a vivid display of operational readiness and maritime strength.
Addressing the gathering, the President emphasised the importance of unity, trust and collective responsibility among nations in ensuring a stable maritime order. Describing the presence of ships bearing different national flags and sailors from across the world as a powerful symbol of global togetherness, she said the IFR’s theme, United through Oceans, conveyed a strong message of cooperation to the international community.
The President noted that India’s engagement in the maritime domain is guided by the civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world is one family. She highlighted the country’s centuries-old relationship with the seas as conduits of trade, commerce and cultural exchange. Referring to Visakhapatnam’s rich maritime heritage and enduring naval significance, she said hosting the IFR further reinforced the city’s strategic importance.
The President also spoke about India’s vision of MAHASAGAR, Mutual and Holistic Advancement of Security and Growth Across Regions, which seeks to promote shared security and collective prosperity. A stable, rules-based maritime order, she observed, depends on coordinated action and shared responsibility among like-minded nations.
Commending the Indian Navy, she said it remains steadfast in safeguarding national maritime interests while contributing to regional stability. She described the Navy as a first responder during humanitarian crises and natural disasters and a key force in strengthening goodwill and naval partnerships worldwide.
Expressing appreciation for the participation of friendly foreign navies, she said their presence reaffirmed mutual trust and a shared commitment to peace, stability and cooperation at sea. The event was attended by S. Abdul Nazeer, N. Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu, along with senior government and defence officials, and marking a significant moment in India’s maritime outreach and naval diplomacy.
