World Navies United Through Ocean During IFR- 2016

Visakhapatnam, 06 February 2016

President  and the Supreme Commander of the armed forces of India, Pranab Mukherjee, reviewed the Fleet comprising naval warships from Indian as well as frontline foreign  navies on morning of 06 February 2016. This was the eleventh Fleet Review after Independence and the second with participation of foreign navies.

After a 21-Gun salute and ceremonial Guard of Honour, the President embarked INS Sumitra, an indigenously built Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) designated as the ‘Presidential Yacht’.

The President was received by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Raksha Mantri Manohar Parrikar and Admiral RK Dhowan, Chief of the Naval Staff.  On leaving harbour, the President’s Yacht weaved through the 70 ships at anchorage off Visakhapatnam port. A spectacular fly-past was conducted as a part of the static review of the Fleet. During the final stage of the review, a mobile column of warships and submarines carried out high speed steam past alongside the Presidential yacht.

Addressing the Fleet during the Review, the President said that IFR 2016, while showcasing the prowess of the Indian Navy, has brought together navies from across the globe here on Indian shores, signifying our common desire to use the seas to promote peace, cooperation and friendship, as also to develop partnerships for a secure maritime future.

In addition to 65 Indian Naval warships and three IN Submarines, the Review also included 24 foreign ships, two ships from the Indian Coast Guard and three from Mercantile Marine. Several enthralling waterfront activities by sail boats, water skiing, display by Marine Commandos and helicopter demonstrations held the public mesmerised.

As the presidential yacht passed between the review anchor columns, each ship dressed in full regalia, saluted the President.  Each ship was manned by her ship’s company, dressed in white ceremonial uniform. In a moment that stood still in time, white caps were doffed in unison in a grand salutation. The resounding sound of ‘Three Jais’ by the ships’ crew echoed over the waves symbolising the spirit of camaraderie and bonhomie across the seas.

Along the way, the President also witnessed demonstrations in the form of breathtaking fly-past by Naval Air Arm and a daring display by the elite Marine Commandos. The fly-past comprised 15 formations of 45 aircraft including two formations from the Indian Coast Guard. It also showcased the latest acquisitions of the Indian Navy such as MiG 29K, Long Range MR aircraft P8I and AEW helicopter KM-31.

Also Read: Supreme Commander President Of India To Review The NavalFleet In IFR-2016 Off Visakhapatnam