Naval rehearsals enliven RK Beach in Visakhapatnam ahead of IFR, MILAN

The iconic RK Beach in the city was transformed into a grand stage on Saturday (February 14, 2026) as the Indian Navy began rehearsals for two of the world’s largest maritime events: the International Fleet Review-2026 (IFR) and MILAN-2026.

Crowds gathered along the shore to witness a spectacular preview of what lies ahead. With the main events scheduled from February 15 to 25, the city is already buzzing with energy and marked by military precision.

The Beach were packed as onlookers gathered to watch the International City Parade rehearsals on Saturday. The air reverberated with the roar of jet engines and the rhythmic cadence of marching.

Indian Navy fighter jet during IFR 2026 flight rehearsals at RK Beach in Visakhapatnam on Saturday.
| Photo Credit:
V. RAJU

Indian Naval aircraft and helicopters performed breathtaking maneuvers over the Bay of Bengal, practicing for the official display on February 18-19. The main event, featuring the Presidential Fleet Review, is scheduled for February 18. On February 19, International City Parade will be held at RK Beach (4 p.m. onwards) featuring naval contingents, air power demonstrations, drone/laser shows, and fireworks.

“This is a historic first for India, as it hosts the IFR, MILAN, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) all at once,” a Naval spokesperson told The Hindu.

According to Defence sources, ships from 19 countries—including the USA, Russia, France, and Germany—are arriving. In total, more than 70 countries are sending representatives, with over 60 warships and 50 aircraft expected to participate.

The star of the show, India’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, is yet to arrive in the Bay of Bengal, and will be the centrepiece of the Presidential Fleet Review, the Defence sources added.