Fleet review highlights Naval unity across globe: Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R K Dhowan

VISAKHAPATNAM: Participation of 50 nations in the International Fleet Review (IFR) here is an example of mutual friendship and co-operation, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R K Dhowan today said at the mega maritime meet showing prowess and preparedness of the Indian Navy.

Dhowan, in his address to mediapersons, said, "With the cooperation of friendly Naval countries, we can strengthen the security and safety of the Oceans."

"International Fleet Reviews are maritime culture to build cooperation and relations between the Navies of the world. We may be separated geographically but (are) certainly untied through the oceans," he said.

This review allows the host nation an occasion to display its maritime capabilities and build bridges of friendship with other maritime nations, he said.

IFR aims at assuring the country of the Indian Navy's preparedness, high morale and discipline, Dhowan said.

President Pranab Mukherjee, the supreme commander of the armed forces, will arrive tomorrow here to review the Naval fleet, a ceremonial and stately inspection of warships.

After a 21-gun salute and the ceremonial guard of honour, Mukherjee will embark on the Presidential Yacht INS Sumitra after inspecting the guard of honour to be presented by 150 Navy personnel, Dhowan said.

The President will review the international fleet comprising 75 frontline ships and submarines. He will also witness the Indian Naval Air Arm in a display of spectacular fly-past by several fixed wing and rotary aircraft comprising 15 formations, a Navy release said.

Other programmes during the five-day event include a two-day International Maritime Conference beginning February 7. The conference, on the theme 'Partnering together for a secure maritime future', would be inaugurated by Defence Minister Manohar Parikkar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi would address the gathering and release a book on India's maritime heritage.

This is the second IFR, in which 50 countries are participating, hosted by India. The first one was held in January 2001 in Mumbai with participation of 29 countries.