What Arrangements Are Being Made for the International Fleet Review and Milan 2026?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Amaravati, Feb 2 (NationPress) In preparation for the International Fleet Review (IFR) scheduled off Visakhapatnam on February 18, followed by the multinational exercise Milan-2026 on February 19, officials convened a meeting on Wednesday to finalize the arrangements.
President Droupadi Murmu is set to assess the capabilities of the Indian Navy during the IFR.
Delegations from 19 nations, including Sri Lanka and Iran, along with around 4,000 delegates, will participate in the event.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be present at Milan, aiming to enhance cooperation and capabilities in maritime operations.
The Chief of Staff of the Eastern Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sushil Menon, along with other naval officials, met with Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand on Monday to discuss the necessary arrangements for both events.
He briefed the Chief Secretary about the participation of numerous ships, aircraft, and delegates from various nations in the IFR.
Additionally, three ships and approximately 150 delegates from the USA, Germany, and France will take part. India will also contribute 90 ships, 45 aircraft, and around 600 delegates.
Notable attendees at the Fleet Review will include President Murmu, Governor Justice S. Abdul Nazeer (retd), and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
Alongside the Chief Minister, other dignitaries will participate in the International City Parade.
The Chief Secretary assured the Eastern Naval Command officers that the state government would provide all necessary support and cooperation to ensure the success of the IFR and Milan-2026.
He instructed concerned department officials on the arrangements that need to be made, emphasizing the importance of security measures given the attendance of high-profile figures such as the President, Defence Minister, Governor, and Chief Minister.
The President conducts a review of the Navy's capabilities once during their tenure, an event known as the President's Fleet Review. Ships from neighboring and allied nations, alongside India's naval forces, participate in this significant review. During this occasion, the President evaluates the capabilities of the participating countries' ships, including key warships and submarines.