India to host three major maritime events in Visakhapatnam in February 2026
India will host three major international maritime events — the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, Exercise MILAN 2026, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs — together for the first time in Visakhapatnam from February 15 to 25, 2026.
The event represents the first operational expression of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision, launched in 2025. The policy extends India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) philosophy beyond the Indian Ocean, focusing on sustainable and cooperative maritime growth.
The convergence will bring together navies from around the world. The Presidential Fleet Review at sea will showcase India’s naval capability with indigenous platforms such as INS Vikrant, Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, and Nilgiri-class frigates.
Exercise MILAN 2026 will enhance coordination in areas such as maritime domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare, and search-and-rescue operations. An International City Parade on Visakhapatnam’s RK Beach will feature contingents from foreign navies, the Indian Army, and the Indian Air Force.
During the IONS Conclave of Chiefs, India will assume Chairmanship for 2025–2027. Chiefs from 25-member nations and 9 observers will meet to discuss maritime security, humanitarian operations, and information sharing.
Preparations are underway with coordination among the Indian Navy, Ministry of Defence, and the Government of Andhra Pradesh. Officials said the event will also bring major economic benefits through tourism and hospitality.
The February 2026 convergence will combine ceremony, cooperation, and strategy — positioning India as a responsible maritime power and a Preferred Security Partner in the Indo-Pacific.