INS Vikrant Leads India’s Participation at International Fleet Review 2025 in Colombo

India has deployed its first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, alongside the indigenously built frigate INS Udaygiri, to the International Fleet Review 2025 in Colombo. Hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy from 27 to 29 November 2025, the event marks both vessels’ maiden overseas deployment and reinforces India’s maritime partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region.

Significance of India’s Representation

INS Vikrant’s participation reflects India’s growing naval self-reliance and its intent to showcase indigenous capability on a global platform. Its presence at a major multilateral maritime event underlines India’s commitment to cooperative security and regional stability. The deployment also highlights India’s alignment with partner navies in the wider Indian Ocean community.

Role of INS Udaygiri in the Deployment

INS Udaygiri, a recently commissioned guided-missile frigate, represents the next phase of India’s naval modernisation. Its inclusion in IFR 2025 demonstrates the maturing capacity of domestic shipyards and the Navy’s balanced force expansion. The frigate’s participation strengthens India’s profile as a rising maritime power with a focus on indigenous production.

Engagements Planned During the Colombo Visit

During the three-day event, both ships will join key fleet review activities including ceremonial inspections, a city parade, community outreach programmes, and structured professional interactions. Public-access hours will allow visitors to board the ships, enhancing naval diplomacy and fostering people-to-people engagement across the region.

Exam Oriented Facts

• INS Vikrant is India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier.
• IFR 2025 is hosted by Sri Lanka as part of its Navy’s 75th anniversary.
• This marks the maiden overseas deployment of INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri.
• Both ships represent India’s indigenous shipbuilding capability.

Strengthening Maritime Cooperation in the IOR

India’s participation reinforces its strategic objective of enhancing interoperability and collaboration with regional navies. By fielding two indigenously built frontline warships, India underscores its commitment to a secure maritime environment and its long-term role in shaping cooperative frameworks in the Indian Ocean Region.