INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri attend Sri Lanka Navy’s IFR 2025 in Colombo

India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and the newly commissioned indigenous stealth frigate INS Udaygiri are participating in the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2025 hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy in Colombo from November 27–29. The IFR is being held as part of the Sri Lanka Navy’s 75th anniversary celebrations, drawing naval ships, delegations and observers from several partner nations.This marks the maiden overseas deployment for both vessels, underscoring India’s growing maritime outreach and commitment to strengthening regional cooperation. A Navy official said the first-ever participation of INS Vikrant in an international fleet review highlights India’s engagement with partner navies in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and reflects New Delhi’s focus on promoting peace, stability and security through collaboration and interoperability.
The presence of INS Udaygiri, commissioned recently, reinforces India’s advancing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and its expanding, balanced maritime footprint in the region.During their stay in Colombo, the Indian Navy ships will take part in major IFR events, including the ceremonial fleet review, city parade, community outreach programmes, and professional naval exchanges. As part of public engagement efforts, both ships will also be open to visitors during the three-day event.The participation comes days after India and Sri Lanka concluded the 11th edition of Exercise Mitra Shakti, held from November 10–23 in Belagavi, Karnataka. The joint military exercise saw participation from troops of the Indian Army’s Rajput Regiment and Sri Lanka’s Gajaba Regiment, along with personnel from both Air Forces.On November 21, the two countries also held the 11th Army-to-Army Staff Talks in Bodhgaya, where they identified priority areas to enhance interoperability and reaffirmed commitments to deeper defence cooperation aimed at promoting regional peace and stability.