INS Vikrant to headline IFR, MILAN events in Visakhapatnam
India’s naval capabilities will take the spotlight in Visakhapatnam as INS Vikrant, the country’s first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier, leads the International Fleet Review (IFR-2026) and Exercise MILAN-2026 from February 15 to 25. The carrier, which reportedly played a significant role during “Operation Sindoor”, is expected to be the centre of attention.
INS Vikrant will join nearly 60 Indian Navy warships and submarines. In addition, ships from friendly foreign navies will participate, highlighting the scale of the exercises.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with armed forces personnel aboard INS Vikrant off the Goa coast on October 20, 2025. During his address, Mr. Modi praised the carrier and remarked that it had given “sleepless nights” to Pakistan.
Commissioned in 2022, INS Vikrant marked India’s entry into a select group of nations capable of designing and building aircraft carriers. Cochin Shipyard Limited constructed the vessel, which reflects India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The Navy named the carrier after its illustrious predecessor, which played a decisive role in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The name Vikrant symbolises courage. The carrier measures 262 metres in length and 62 metres in width. Its height is comparable to an 18-storey structure. It accommodates a crew of around 1,600 and operates up to 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets and helicopters.
Besides INS Vikrant, several frontline platforms will take part in the IFR. These include INS Chennai, INS Visakhapatnam, INS Mysore, INS Mumbai, INS Rana, INS Ranvir, INS Ranvijay, and INS Tamal. Submarines such as INS Sindhukesari, INS Shankul, and INS Sindhukerti will also join.
Meanwhile, the Indian Navy will host three international engagements concurrently in the city. The IFR and Exercise MILAN will run alongside the IONS Conclave of Chiefs. Together, these events will bring naval leaders and participating navies from multiple countries.
The IFR will begin with a Presidential Banquet on February 17. Subsequently, the Presidential Fleet Review will take place at sea on February 18. The review will showcase Indian naval capabilities, with a special focus on indigenous platforms. Additionally, foreign warships and aircraft will participate.