ProMASS News Bureau: Feb 6, 2016:
International Fleet Review (IFR) gets under in Vishakhapatnam this morning with President Pranab Mukherjee given 21-gun salute and the ceremonial Guard of Honour by 150 Navy personnel at the Naval Jetty. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, the three Service Chiefs, Andhra Pradesh Governor ESL Narasimhan and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu were present on the occasion.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R.K. Dhowan is also seen.
Speaking on the occasion, President Pranab Mukherjee said the fleet review signifies our common desire to use the seas to promote peace and co-operation. He also reviewed the Air Arm of the Indian Navy in full display with spectacular fly-past by several fixed wing and rotary aircraft comprising 15 formations of 45 aircraft including two formations from the Indian Coast Guard.
This also includes the latest acquisitions of the Indian Navy such as Carrier Borne Strike Fighter MIG 29K, Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft, Illusion-38, Sea Harriers, P8I, Advanced Jet Trainer, Hawks and the AEW Helicopter KM-31, besides live demonstrations by Navy personnel. The enthralling waterfront activities, a display by Marine Commandos and Helicopter demonstrations enthralled the viewers.
