Admiral R Hari Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) arrived in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, 19 Feb 22. The CNS reviewed the overall preparations for the President’s Fleet Review (PFR) on 20 Feb 22. The 12th edition of the PFR is being conducted at Visakhapatnam on 21 Feb 22 as part of the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence, being celebrated as ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’. Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Hon’ble President of India, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, embarked on the Presidential Yacht INS Sumitra will review the Indian Naval Fleet comprising over 60 ships and submarines, and 55 aircraft.
Ships from all Naval Commands and Andaman and Nicobar Command are anchored in four columns. The Presidential yacht will sail past 44 ships anchored in four lanes, and will be accorded the ceremonial salute, one by one. The participating platforms in the review includes newly inducted combat platforms, the latest stealth destroyer INS Visakhapatnam and INS Vela, a Kalvari class submarine commissioned into the Indian Navy recently. IN Ships Chennai, Delhi, Teg and three Shivalik class frigates and three Kamorta class ASW Corvettes will also form part of the review. Ships from the Coast Guard, Shipping Corporation of India & Ministry of Earth Sciences are also taking part. A Composite Fly Past by Chetaks, ALH, Sea Kings, KAMOVs, Dorniers, IL-38SD, P8I, Hawks and MiG 29K will also form part of the Review. It is pertinent to mention that 47 out the 60 ships and submarines participating have been constructed in Indian shipyards, thus showcasing indigenous capabilities and progress towards Atmanirbharta.
