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India Confirms February 2026 IFR, Milan and IONS in Visakhapatnam as US, Russia Join

New Delhi frames the 2026 convergence as a display of convening power with an emphasis on indigenous warships.

Overview

  • The three gatherings are scheduled for February 15–25 in Visakhapatnam, with the Presidential Fleet Review on February 18 and MILAN’s harbour phase on February 19–20 followed by a sea phase on February 21–25.
  • More than 55 countries have responded positively so far, with the United States and Russia confirming they will send ships, and possible aircraft participation still being worked out.
  • Organisers say the fleet review will highlight indigenous capability, featuring INS Vikrant and Kalvari-class submarines among other Indian-built platforms.
  • Officials said China, Türkiye and Pakistan were not invited to the International Fleet Review or Exercise MILAN in 2026.
  • The Navy stressed ongoing surveillance of foreign vessels in the Indian Ocean, including Chinese ships, and confirmed a Shivalik-class warship will deploy to Guam for the Malabar exercise in November.