Indian Navy to host International Fleet Review in February; more than 46 nations to participate

NEW DELHI: The Indian Navy on Thursday announced grand plans to host its largest international event the International Fleet Review (IFR) to showcase capabilities of the Indian navy along with navies of more than 46 nations, to be held in the first week of February next year.

While Pakistan has rejected the invitation to showcase its naval prowess at the review, China is only too eager to demonstrate its blue-sea capabilities heading in for debut appearance. Still securing participation from its global counterparts, the naval chief stated an ‘unfavorable response’ from the Pakistan Navy.

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"The High Commission in Islamabad which had communicated with their counterparts, informed us that they have not received a favourable response to the invite", he said at briefing on the IFR. On the other hand, China has displayed willingness to participate in the review with a warship as well as a delegation.

The first International Fleet Review was held in Mumbai in 2001, however sources indicate the move to hold the second International Fleet Review, after 15 years, was undertaken during the new governments’ regime. The navy has decided to host sea faring navies in the port of Visakhapatnam this time, as the harbor allows ample scope for a large number of ships, and depths of the anchorage will enable live demonstration operations better.

Naval officials added the event is being held at an unprecedented scale with signature elements like a theme, logo, song and mascot especially designed for the event. The Navy has also launched a website and application to serves as a single window interaction for the public and invitees.