President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday reviewed a global display of maritime might at the International Fleet Review 2016 at Vishakhapatnam. Navies from 52 countries, including China, Russia, the United States, Japan, Vietnam, Israel, France, Britain and Australia are participating in the event. At least 90 ships and vessels of the Indian Navy, along with aircraft carrier INS Virat and INS Vikramaditya, are also present.

Mukherjee, the supreme commander of the three defence forces, was accompanied by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on board the INS Sumitra, which sailed through a display of 70 ships at anchorage off Visakhapatnam. "IFR 2016, while focusing on the prowess of 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 develop partnership for a secure maritime future", Mukherjee said.

The International Fleet Review is a ceremonial inspection and parade of naval boats and crews. This is the 11th fleet review taking place after independence and the second international one being conducted in India, reported PTI.