A remarkable satellite image has revealed an extraordinary lineup of 71 naval ships positioned off the coast of Visakhapatnam during the International Fleet Review 2026 (IFR 2026).
Captured by Azista Space’s AFR satellite, the high-resolution image shows warships arranged in disciplined, multi-column formations across the Bay of Bengal. The visual offers a rare orbital perspective of one of the largest peacetime naval assemblies in the region.
The International Fleet Review, hosted by the Indian Navy, brought together a wide range of major naval platforms from India and partner nations. The coordinated alignment of ships reflects both operational precision and international maritime cooperation.
Among the prominent vessels visible in the formation is INS Vikrant, India’s indigenously built aircraft carrier and a symbol of the country’s expanding blue-water naval capabilities. Foreign naval ships were also positioned in organized columns, underscoring interoperability — the ability of different navies to operate together effectively.
From space, the fleet appears as a carefully structured grid stretching across the sea, highlighting the meticulous planning and synchronized maneuvering involved in staging such a large-scale event.
Beyond its ceremonial significance, the satellite capture demonstrates the growing importance of space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems in Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). ISR refers to satellite and sensor networks that collect observational data, while MDA focuses on monitoring and understanding maritime activity to enhance security and preparedness.
The ability to observe large naval deployments from orbit illustrates how commercial and defense space technologies are transforming maritime oversight. Real-time or near-real-time satellite imagery adds a new dimension to strategic transparency and assessment.
IFR 2026 not only showcased naval strength and international collaboration but also highlighted India’s expanding role in maritime diplomacy — a display now visible even from space.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
