Vice-Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command (ENC), said 2026 will mark a historic convergence at Visakhapatnam with three major naval events — the International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN-26, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (Conclave of Chiefs) — the largest such gatherings in India’s history.
In his address, Bhalla said the Navy symbolises India’s maritime strength and resilience, sustaining high operational tempo through bilateral and multilateral exercises. In 2025, ENC ships visited 20 foreign ports, including Suva (Fiji) and Port Moresby (PNG). Combat readiness was maintained through major exercises such as TROPEX, AMPHEX, Jal Prahar, and Trishul-25, while coastal security was strengthened via Sea Vigil, Sagar Kavach, Op Sentinel, Op Prasthan, and Sajag.
The IFR in February 2026 will feature foreign naval ships, two aircraft carriers, and contingents from 20 countries, with the President of India reviewing the fleet on February 18. Exercise MILAN-26 will emphasise interoperability, while the International City Parade and maritime conclave will celebrate camaraderie and deliberate on contemporary issues under India’s chairmanship.
See also: India, Russia to hold joint naval drills next month, TASS reports
A press service statement, cited by TASS, said a frigate of the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet would leave the port of Muscat in Oman to take part in the Milan-2026 exercises, and then make an unofficial visit to the Indian port of Visakhapatnam from February 18 to 25.