RK Beach Hosts Grand Naval Rehearsals Ahead of IFR & MILAN
As the city gears up for a rare convergence of major global naval events, RK Beach came alive on Saturday with the Indian Navy launching full-scale rehearsals for the International Fleet Review-2026 (IFR) and MILAN-2026. The drills offered residents and visitors an early glimpse of the scale and spectacle awaiting Visakhapatnam in the coming days.
Crowds gathered along the beachfront as the Navy’s preparations unfolded with clockwork precision. The usually tranquil shoreline transformed into a dynamic arena of synchronised marching, aerial manoeuvres, and ceremonial exercises.
The promenade was packed with spectators witnessing rehearsals for the International City Parade. The atmosphere intensified as the roar of jet engines filled the sky, accompanied by the steady cadence of marching contingents.
Naval aircraft and helicopters carried out intricate aerial exercises over the Bay of Bengal ahead of the official displays scheduled for February 18 and 19. The Presidential Fleet Review will be held on February 18, while the International City Parade is scheduled for February 19 from 4 p.m. onwards at RK Beach. The parade will feature naval contingents, air power demonstrations, drone and laser shows, followed by fireworks.
“This is a historic first for India, hosting the IFR, MILAN, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) concurrently,” a Naval spokesperson said.
Defence sources confirmed that warships from 19 countries, including the United States, Russia, France, and Germany, are arriving. More than 70 nations are sending official delegations, with over 60 warships and around 50 aircraft expected to participate.
India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which is yet to enter the Bay of Bengal, will be the centrepiece of the Presidential Fleet Review, sources added.