US and Russia Confirmed for India’s 2026 Naval Events
India’s Indian Navy will host three major international maritime events — the International Fleet Review (IFR), the Exercise MILAN and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs — in Visakhapatnam from February 15 to 25, 2026. More than 55 nations have reportedly indicated their willingness to take part.
Officials have confirmed that the United States and Russia are participating with ships and several aircraft. Meanwhile, it is understood that the People’s Republic of China, Pakistan and Turkey have not been invited.
Strategic Significance
The combined hosting of IFR, MILAN and IONS is a first for India. The vice-chief of the Indian Navy noted that the event signals India’s commitment to maintaining free and open seas through platforms like the Act East Policy and the Indo‑Pacific Oceans Initiative. Participation by major navies underscores New Delhi’s intent to engage broadly across the Indo-Pacific maritime domain.
Geopolitical Implications
The inclusion of the United States and Russia (‘invited and confirmed’) alongside the exclusion of China, Pakistan and Turkey reflects India’s selective engagement framework amid changing regional dynamics. Strategic analysts say the non-invitation of China and Pakistan aligns with India’s broader security concerns, while Turkey’s exclusion is linked to its support to Pakistan in past operations. The forthcoming events will display India’s indigenous maritime platforms, including its aircraft carrier, destroyers and corvettes, reflecting both a power-projection and diplomatic signalling exercise.
