India to host three major global maritime events in February 2026
New Delhi, Nov 1: India will host three major international maritime events simultaneously for the first time in February 2026 at Visakhapatnam – the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, Exercise MILAN 2026, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs.
The events will take place from February 15 to 25, 2026, marking a milestone in India’s maritime engagement.
The convergence of these events reflects the implementation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — announced in 2025. Building on India’s SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region), MAHASAGAR extends its focus from the Indian Ocean to a wider Indo-Pacific framework, emphasizing sustainability, cooperation, and shared maritime responsibility. A Presidential Fleet Review at sea will be the highlight of IFR 2026, featuring indigenous warships including INS Vikrant, Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class frigates, and Arnala-class corvettes, along with vessels from friendly foreign navies, the Indian Coast Guard and Merchant Marine.
Exercise MILAN 2026 will feature both harbour and sea phases, focusing on interoperability, maritime domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare, air defence, and search-and-rescue operations. An International City Parade along Visakhapatnam’s RK Beach will see contingents from participating navies and India’s armed forces, showcasing maritime cooperation to the public.
The IONS Conclave of Chiefs will bring together naval leaders from 25 member countries and 9 observers, where India will assume Chairmanship of IONS for the second time (2025–2027). Discussions will focus on maritime security, disaster relief, and information sharing.
An International Maritime Seminar will also be held, bringing together strategists, defence officials, academics, and industry representatives to discuss emerging challenges and technologies.
Visakhapatnam, home to the Eastern Naval Command, has been chosen for its strategic location and robust infrastructure. Preparations are being coordinated by the Indian Navy, along with the Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, Home Affairs, Tourism, and Culture, the Government of Andhra Pradesh, and local authorities.
The three events are expected to attract navies from across the world and generate significant economic activity in the region through tourism and services. Together, they will underline India’s commitment to free, open, and inclusive seas and reinforce its role as a responsible maritime power. The convergence of IFR, MILAN, and IONS transforms naval tradition into strategic cooperation, blending maritime strength with diplomacy and innovation. It will reinforce India’s standing as a responsible maritime power, dedicated to ensuring mutual advancement, holistic security, and sustainable growth across regions.
