India Excludes China, Pakistan and Turkiye from 2026 International Fleet Review

India has decided not to invite China, Pakistan, and Turkiye to the upcoming third International Fleet Review (IFR) scheduled in Visakhapatnam in February 2026. The major maritime event will be reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu and held alongside the Milan multilateral naval exercise and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). So far, 55 nations have confirmed participation, including both the United States and Russia, underscoring India’s growing naval prominence.

Geopolitical Message Behind the Invitations

According to Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, the IFR will host a large number of countries, though the invite list does not include China, Pakistan, or Turkiye. A senior naval official confirmed that Turkiye was excluded for its support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, while Pakistan’s omission continues the long-standing policy of excluding adversarial states from Indian defence exercises. India’s cautious approach toward China stems from increasing strategic tensions and its growing presence in the Indian Ocean Region.

Global Participation and Strategic Cooperation

Vice Admiral Vatsayan announced that both the United States and Russia have confirmed their participation, with ships and aircraft set to join the event. More than 55 countries are expected to take part, representing a broad range of maritime partnerships. The IFR and Milan 2026 aim to deepen cooperation, conduct joint drills, and foster dialogue among naval personnel to strengthen global maritime security. The Indian Navy emphasises that the final list may expand as more confirmations arrive before the event.

Historical Evolution of Fleet Reviews

Fleet Reviews in India trace their roots to the 18th century Maratha Navy’s exercises off the Konkan coast. The first Presidential Fleet Review was held in 1953 under President Rajendra Prasad, marking India’s post-Independence maritime resurgence. Since then, ten such reviews have been conducted, transforming the tradition from a national showcase into an international event reflecting India’s growing influence in maritime diplomacy.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The 2026 International Fleet Review will be held in Visakhapatnam in February.
• China, Pakistan, and Turkiye are excluded from the invitation list.
• President Droupadi Murmu will review the fleet; the first review was in 1953.
• The IFR 2026 theme is “United Through Oceans,” reflecting India’s maritime vision.

“United Through Oceans” – India’s Maritime Vision

The theme for IFR 2026, “United Through Oceans,” embodies Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of the seas as shared spaces connecting nations and enabling global trade. The Milan 2026 exercise, to be held concurrently, will focus on “Camaraderie, Cooperation and Collaboration.” Through these engagements, India aims to highlight its indigenous naval capabilities, reinforce Indo-Pacific security, and project its leadership in fostering peace and stability across the world’s oceans.