ENC Chief Highlights Ensuing Global Naval Events At R-Day Parade

Visakhapatnam: Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command (ENC), said on Sunday that the country is gearing up to host three major maritime events – International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN-26 and Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (Chiefs’ Meeting) – which are the largest such meetings in India’s history. The events will be held in Visakhapatnam from February 15.

Addressing the staff after unfurling the national flag at the naval base on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, the Vice Admiral said that navy ships, two foreign aircraft carriers and delegations from many countries will attend the ceremony. Indigenous platforms reflecting Aatma Nirbhar Bharat will be exhibited at the fleet inspection by the President of India on February 18.

He said that MILAN-26 will focus on interoperability, while the International City Parade will include troops from 20 foreign countries. An international maritime seminar and meeting of naval commanders will discuss important current issues.

Vice Admiral Bhalla noted that the Indian Navy maintained high operational tempo in 2025, conducted bilateral and multilateral exercises and visited 20 foreign ports. Last year, six warships were launched that enhance anti-submarine and rescue capabilities, and two more are expected to enter service soon.