The Port City will re-emerge on the global stage as the site of two major naval drills. The stage is set for the much-anticipated international fleet review on Monday, as well as the multi-national naval exercise (MILAN), which will take place from February 25 to March 4.
The President’s Fleet Review (PFR) is being held for the third time in Vizag. The first took place in 2006, and the second took place in 2016. On Monday, President Ram Nath Kovind, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will see the naval fleet, which includes more than 60 ships and submarines as well as 55 aircraft.
This is the 12th PFR, which is particularly significant because it is being held on the 75th anniversary of India’s independence, which is commemorated as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The Presidential Yacht will be INS Sumitra, an indigenously designed and built Saryu-class patrol vessel that will lead the Presidential Column.
For the PFR, ships from all naval commands, as well as the Andaman and Nicobar Command, have been anchored in four columns. The Presidential Yacht will sail past 44 anchored ships in four lanes, receiving a ceremonial salute one by one.
Indian shipyards have manufactured 47 of the 60 ships and submarines that are taking part in the PFR. As the President passes, each ship will salute him in full regalia.
The Indian Naval Air Arm will be reviewed by the President in a stunning flypast by many helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The Presidential Yacht will be passed by a mobile column of warships and submarines in the final stage of the PFR.
The PFR will feature a variety of exciting waterfront activities, including a Parade of Sails, a Search and Rescue Demonstration at Sea, Hawk aircraft aerobatics, and a Water Para Jump by the elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS).
In the presence of Union Minister for Defence Rajnath Singh and Minister of State for Communications Devusinh J Chauhan, the President will distribute a special first-day cover and a commemorative stamp. Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of Naval Staff, inspected the entire preparations for the PFR.
MILAN 2022 will begin on February 25th
MILAN 2022 has received invitations from over 45 nations. The naval exercise will feature over 15 foreign warships and aircraft, 11 Chiefs of Navies, the Coast Guard, and over 120 delegates. MILAN’s highlight will be the City Parade on February 27. The event’s chief guest will be Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.
A carnival will be held to showcase the local culture and art forms. There will be Etikoppaka toys, Ponduru Khadi, handloom, and handicrafts stalls. There will also be stalls selling local cuisine. The march is likely to attract around two lakh spectators. Along the city’s beach route, stands have been established. MILAN’s Harbour Phase will take place from February 25 to March 3.
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