India’s Naval Power: Visakhapatnam & the Hard-Soft Power Balance
Visakhapatnam, India – The Indian Navy commenced a series of multinational maritime exercises on February 14, 2026, culminating in the concurrent hosting of the International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN-26, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs. The convergence, dubbed the “Vizag Naval Trifecta 2026,” represents an unprecedented gathering of naval forces and maritime leaders from over 50 countries.
The IFR, scheduled from February 15 to 25, 2026, will showcase naval power through a display of warships, submarines, and aircraft in the Bay of Bengal. The President of India is scheduled to conduct a Presidential Fleet Review on February 18, 2026, inspecting the assembled vessels. This review is intended to demonstrate both diplomatic goodwill and military strength, highlighting partnerships with nations including the United States.
Immediately following the Fleet Review, Exercise MILAN-26 will take place from February 19 to 25, 2026. The 13th edition of the biennial multilateral exercise is themed “Camaraderie, Cooperation, Collaboration” and will focus on operational drills. The exercise will include an Opening Ceremony on February 19, followed by an International Maritime Seminar and a Harbour Phase, both running February 19-20.
The IONS Conclave of Chiefs is the third component of the Trifecta. These three events, held simultaneously for the first time, underscore India’s increasing role as a key maritime power and a central hub for naval diplomacy. The events are expected to draw dozens of naval chiefs and dignitaries to Visakhapatnam, headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command.
Participating Indian naval assets include INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, alongside Nilgiri-class stealth frigates, Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, and specialized warfare vessels. A full list of participating units includes multiple destroyers, frigates, corvettes, and amphibious landing ships. The Indian Coast Guard vessel ICGS Veera is also confirmed to participate.
The concurrent nature of the IFR, MILAN, and IONS is intended to maximize opportunities for professional exchange, operational skill development, and the strengthening of camaraderie among participating navies. The events are guided by the themes of ‘United Through Oceans’ for the IFR and “Camaraderie, Cooperation, Collaboration” for MILAN.
As of February 16, 2026, no official statements have been released regarding specific operational details or agreements expected to emerge from the IONS Conclave of Chiefs, which will follow the completion of the IFR and Exercise MILAN-26.