Visakhapatnam to host International Fleet Review, MILAN-26 exercise and Indian Ocean naval conclave in 2026
Visakhapatnam is set to host a rare convergence of major naval events in 2026: the International Fleet Review, Exercise MILAN-26 and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium conclave of chiefs. The Eastern Naval Command chief said the gatherings would draw foreign ships and delegations and include a fleet review by the President of India.
Three headline naval gatherings planned in Vizag
Visakhapatnam will host three major naval events in 2026: the International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN-26 and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (Conclave of Chiefs), Eastern Naval Command chief Vice-Admiral Sanjay Bhalla said during Republic Day remarks. The cluster of events is being positioned as one of the largest maritime congregations in India’s history.
According to the official outline shared by the command, the IFR in February 2026 is expected to feature foreign naval ships and contingents from around 20 countries, with a review by the President of India scheduled for February 18. The programme is also expected to include associated events such as a city parade and discussions among visiting maritime leaders.
MILAN-26, meanwhile, is designed to emphasise interoperability among participating navies and strengthen operational familiarity in the region. The Indian Ocean Naval Symposium conclave is expected to provide a platform for senior naval leadership to deliberate on contemporary security and maritime cooperation topics.
The command also highlighted sustained operational tempo and international engagement, including port visits and exercises. The broader context is a growing focus on maritime presence as global strategic competition intensifies, particularly across sea lanes that affect trade and energy flows.
What to watch next
- Final list of participating nations and vessels for the IFR and MILAN-26.
- Public-facing events in Visakhapatnam, including city-parade details and schedules.
- Outcomes from the chiefs’ conclave, especially on Indian Ocean cooperation and risk reduction.