President of India, who is also the supreme commander of all three-wings of the Indian armed forces, holds at least one review session of the Navy during his term. These reviews are conducted to ascertain the war-preparedness of the naval forces. While 10 fleet reviews have been held since 1953, with the latest being organized in 2011, this would be only the second instance when 'International Fleet Review' (IFR) is conducted.
The first edition of IFR was held in 2001 under the Presidency of APJ Abdul Kalam. In the joint-naval drill conducted off the coast of Mumbai, 29 countries participated. However, the second IFR planned almost after one and a half decade, is expected to be way more massive, since 52 countries have already confirmed their participation. The geopolitical goal is to create friendly relations with global leaders and create a maritime bond with friendly nations. The event is organized by Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam (Vizag) between February 4 to February 8.
Latin American nations South Korea .
"Nearly 70 years after Independence, it is a significant moment in country's maritime history. This is the eleventh Fleet Review but only our second International edition. While showcasing our navy to the nation and our sovereign, we also celebrate the time enshrines principles of friendship across the oceans that are intrinsic to our seafaring community," said Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R K Dhowan.
IFR 2016 will begin on February 4 with the opening remarks of Admiral R K Dhowan. The Maritime exhibition will be held in Vizag. On the next day, the opening ceremony of the joint naval drill will be initiated. President Pranab Mukherjee will review the naval prowess on February 6. The review session will begin at 9 AM.
The International Maritime Conference will begin on February 7. Day 1 of the summit will be attended by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Vizag on the same day to observe the Operational Demonstration.
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