President’s Fleet Review, Mumbai

A Global Tradition

Naval Fleet Reviews are ceremonial occasions traditionally held by navies across the world to showcase maritime strength, discipline, and operational readiness. These grand events symbolise loyalty, allegiance, and pride, with naval vessels and aircraft meticulously prepared to reflect the spirit of service to the nation and its Supreme Commander.

Significance of the President’s Fleet Review

The President’s Fleet Review (PFR) is the highest ceremonial event of the Indian Navy. It represents a symbolic display of India’s maritime power and preparedness, conveying to the Supreme Commander and the nation that the country’s naval forces are fully capable of meeting any maritime challenge. The Review underlines the Navy’s role in safeguarding national interests and ensuring security across India’s vast maritime domain.

Tradition in India

In India, it is a time-honoured tradition for the President of India, as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, to review the Naval Fleet once during his or her tenure. Since independence, nine President’s Fleet Reviews have been conducted, each marking an important milestone in the evolution and growth of the Indian Navy.

Conduct of the Fleet Review

During the Review, participating naval units—including warships, submarines, auxiliary vessels, and Coast Guard ships—are anchored in meticulously aligned formations, arranged in precise columns. The President embarks on a specially designated naval vessel known as the ‘Presidential Yacht’ and reviews the fleet by cruising past each ship.

Simultaneously, aircraft of the Naval Air Arm fly overhead in a coordinated aerial salute, adding a dramatic dimension to the ceremonial display and demonstrating the Navy’s integrated air-sea operational capability.

President’s Fleet Review at Mumbai

Mumbai, one of India’s most important naval bases, has often served as a fitting venue for the President’s Fleet Review. The event at Mumbai highlights the city’s enduring association with maritime heritage and the Indian Navy’s strategic presence on the western seaboard.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

To mark this prestigious national event, India Post has issued a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the occasion of the President’s Fleet Review at Mumbai. The stamp serves as a lasting tribute to India’s naval tradition, maritime strength, and the enduring bond between the nation and its Navy.